Electric Potential of Earth – Rankers Physics

Electric Potential: Practice Problem & Solution

Assertion (A): Electric potential of earth is taken as zero. Reason (R): Electric field strength on the surface of earth is zero.  
(1) Both (A) & (R) are true and the (R) is the correct explanation of the (A)
(2) Both (A) & (R) are true but the (R) is not the correct explanation of the (A)
(3) (A) is true but (R) is false
(4) Both (A) and (R) are false

Short Solution (Best for NEET):

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Electric Potential. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Assertion (A): For practical purposes in circuit analysis and grounding, the Earth's electric potential is taken as zero because it is a large conductor and can absorb or supply charge without significant potential change. So (A) is true.

Reason (R): The electric field strength on the Earth's surface is generally not zero; it varies due to atmospheric conditions, presence of charges, etc. So (R) is false.nTherefore, (A) is true and (R) is false.

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