Electric Potential: Practice Problem & Solution
Assertion (A): If electric field in x-y plane is given by \( \vec{E} = y\hat{i} + x\hat{j} \) then equipotential curve is given by \( xy = \text{ constant} \). Reason (R): Electric field may not be perpendicular to equipotential surface/curve/line.
Solution Explained:
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:
Concept: Relation between electric field and equipotential surfaces.
Formula: \( \vec{E} = -\nabla V \).
Solution: From \( \vec{E} = -\nabla V \) for \( \vec{E} = y\hat{i} + x\hat{j} \), potential is \( V = -xy + C \), so equipotential curves are \( xy = \text{ constant} \) (A is true). Electric field lines are always perpendicular to equipotential surfaces (R is false).
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