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Electric potential Questions in English

Class 12 Physics · Electric Potential and Capacitance · Electric potential

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401
EasyMCQ
$A$ hollow metal sphere of radius $15 \,cm$ is charged such that the potential on its surface is $20 \,V$. Then, the potential at the centre of the sphere is (in $V$)
A
$0$
B
$20$
C
$10$
D
$15$

Solution

(B) The radius of the hollow metallic sphere is $R = 15 \,cm$. The potential on the surface is $V_{surface} = 20 \,V$.
For a hollow metallic sphere, the electric field inside the sphere is zero $(E = 0)$.
Since the electric field is the negative gradient of the potential $(E = -dV/dr)$, if $E = 0$, then the potential $V$ must be constant throughout the interior of the sphere.
Therefore, the potential at the centre of the sphere is equal to the potential on its surface.
Thus, the potential at the centre is $20 \,V$.
402
EasyMCQ
Electric charges $+q$ and $-q$ are placed at points $A$ and $B$ respectively,which are at a distance of $2L$ apart. If $C$ is the midpoint between $A$ and $B$,then the work done in moving a charge $+Q$ along the semi-circle $CRD$ is
Question diagram
A
$\frac{qQ}{2\pi\varepsilon_0 L}$
B
$\frac{qQ}{6\pi\varepsilon_0 L}$
C
$-\frac{qQ}{6\pi\varepsilon_0 L}$
D
$\frac{qQ}{4\pi\varepsilon_0 L}$

Solution

(C) The given situation is shown in the figure. The distance $AC = CB = L$. The point $D$ is at a distance $L$ from $B$,so $AD = 3L$ and $BD = L$.
Work done $W$ in moving a charge $Q$ along the semi-circle $CRD$ is equal to the change in potential energy of the system.
$W = U_{\text{final}} - U_{\text{initial}}$
$U_{\text{initial}}$ is the potential energy when $Q$ is at $C$:
$U_{\text{initial}} = \frac{kqQ}{AC} + \frac{k(-q)Q}{BC} + \frac{kq(-q)}{AB} = \frac{kqQ}{L} - \frac{kqQ}{L} - \frac{kq^2}{2L} = -\frac{kq^2}{2L}$
$U_{\text{final}}$ is the potential energy when $Q$ is at $D$:
$U_{\text{final}} = \frac{kqQ}{AD} + \frac{k(-q)Q}{BD} + \frac{kq(-q)}{AB} = \frac{kqQ}{3L} - \frac{kqQ}{L} - \frac{kq^2}{2L} = -\frac{2kqQ}{3L} - \frac{kq^2}{2L}$
$W = (-\frac{2kqQ}{3L} - \frac{kq^2}{2L}) - (-\frac{kq^2}{2L}) = -\frac{2kqQ}{3L}$
Substituting $k = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0}$:
$W = -\frac{2}{3} \cdot \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \cdot \frac{qQ}{L} = -\frac{qQ}{6\pi\varepsilon_0 L}$
Solution diagram
403
MediumMCQ
$A$ spherical drop of liquid carrying charge $Q$ has potential $V_0$ at its surface. If two drops of same charge and radius combine to form a single spherical drop,then the potential at the surface of the new drop is (Assume $V=0$ at infinity.)
A
$2^{1/3} V_0$
B
$4^{1/3} V_0$
C
$6^{1/3} V_0$
D
$2^{-1/3} V_0$

Solution

(B) Given,charge of each small spherical drop $= Q$ and potential at its surface $= V_0$. Let $r$ be the radius of each small drop. The potential is given by $V_0 = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q}{r}$.
When two such drops combine to form a single large drop of radius $R$,the volume is conserved: $\frac{4}{3} \pi R^3 = 2 \times \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3$,which gives $R^3 = 2r^3$ or $R = 2^{1/3} r$.
The total charge on the new large drop is $Q' = Q + Q = 2Q$.
The potential at the surface of the new drop is $V' = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q'}{R} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{2Q}{2^{1/3} r}$.
Substituting $V_0 = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q}{r}$,we get $V' = V_0 \times \frac{2}{2^{1/3}} = V_0 \times 2^{1 - 1/3} = V_0 \times 2^{2/3} = V_0 \times (2^2)^{1/3} = 4^{1/3} V_0$.
404
MediumMCQ
Two isolated,concentric,conducting spherical shells have radii $R$ and $2R$ and uniform charges $q$ and $2q$ respectively. If $V_1$ and $V_2$ are potentials at points located at distances $3R$ and $\frac{R}{2}$,respectively,from the centre of the shells,then the ratio $\left(\frac{V_2}{V_1}\right)$ will be:
A
$2$
B
$1$
C
$\frac{1}{2}$
D
$0$

Solution

(A) The potential $V$ at a distance $r$ from the center of a conducting spherical shell of radius $R$ with charge $Q$ is given by:
$V = \frac{kQ}{R}$ for $r \le R$ and $V = \frac{kQ}{r}$ for $r > R$,where $k = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0}$.
For the point at distance $r = \frac{R}{2}$ (inside both shells):
The potential $V_2$ is the sum of potentials due to both shells:
$V_2 = \frac{kq}{R} + \frac{k(2q)}{2R} = \frac{kq}{R} + \frac{kq}{R} = \frac{2kq}{R}$.
For the point at distance $r = 3R$ (outside both shells):
The potential $V_1$ is the sum of potentials due to both shells treated as point charges at the center:
$V_1 = \frac{kq}{3R} + \frac{k(2q)}{3R} = \frac{3kq}{3R} = \frac{kq}{R}$.
Therefore,the ratio $\frac{V_2}{V_1} = \frac{2kq/R}{kq/R} = 2$.
405
MediumMCQ
Two concentric hollow spherical shells have radii $r$ and $R$ $(R \gg r)$. $A$ charge $Q$ is distributed on them such that the surface charge densities are equal. The electric potential at the centre is
A
$\frac{Q(R+r)}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0(R^2+r^2)}$
B
$\frac{Q(R^2+r^2)}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0(R+r)}$
C
$\frac{Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0(R+r)}$
D
zero

Solution

(A) Let the surface charge density be $\sigma$. The total charge $Q$ is distributed on the two shells such that $\sigma_1 = \sigma_2 = \sigma$.
Total charge $Q = \sigma(4 \pi r^2) + \sigma(4 \pi R^2) = 4 \pi \sigma(r^2 + R^2)$.
Thus,$\sigma = \frac{Q}{4 \pi (r^2 + R^2)}$.
The electric potential at the centre of a spherical shell of radius $a$ with charge $q$ is $V = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{q}{a}$.
For the two shells,the potential at the centre is the sum of the potentials due to each shell:
$V = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left( \frac{q_1}{r} + \frac{q_2}{R} \right) = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left( \frac{\sigma 4 \pi r^2}{r} + \frac{\sigma 4 \pi R^2}{R} \right)$.
$V = \frac{\sigma}{\varepsilon_0} (r + R)$.
Substituting the value of $\sigma$:
$V = \frac{Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 (r^2 + R^2)} (r + R) = \frac{Q(R+r)}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 (R^2+r^2)}$.
406
DifficultMCQ
Two point charges $-q$ and $+q$ are located at points $(0,0,-a)$ and $(0,0, a)$ respectively. The electric potential at a point $(0,0, z)$,where $z>a$ is
A
$\frac{q a}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 z^2}$
B
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 a}$
C
$\frac{2 q a}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0(z^2-a^2)}$
D
$\frac{2 q a}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0(z^2+a^2)}$

Solution

(C) The potential at point $P(0,0,z)$ due to the charge $+q$ located at $(0,0,a)$ is:
$V_1 = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \cdot \frac{q}{(z-a)}$
The potential at point $P(0,0,z)$ due to the charge $-q$ located at $(0,0,-a)$ is:
$V_2 = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \cdot \frac{-q}{(z-(-a))} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \cdot \frac{-q}{(z+a)}$
The total electric potential $V$ at point $P$ is the algebraic sum of the potentials due to individual charges:
$V = V_1 + V_2$
$V = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{q}{z-a} - \frac{q}{z+a} \right]$
$V = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{(z+a) - (z-a)}{(z-a)(z+a)} \right]$
$V = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{z+a-z+a}{z^2-a^2} \right]$
$V = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{2a}{z^2-a^2} \right]$
$V = \frac{2qa}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0(z^2-a^2)}$
Solution diagram
407
DifficultMCQ
Along the $x$-axis,three charges $\frac{q}{2}, -q$ and $\frac{q}{2}$ are placed at $x=0, x=a$ and $x=2a$ respectively. The resultant electric potential at a point $P$ located at a distance $r$ from the charge $-q$ $(r > a)$ is ($\varepsilon_0$ is the permittivity of free space):
A
$\frac{q a}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^2}$
B
$\frac{q a^2}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^3}$
C
$\frac{q(a^2/4)}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^3}$
D
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r}$

Solution

(B) The charges are located at $x=0$ $(q/2)$,$x=a$ $(-q)$,and $x=2a$ $(q/2)$. Point $P$ is at distance $r$ from the charge $-q$ at $x=a$. Since $P$ is on the $x$-axis at distance $r$ from $x=a$,its coordinate is $x = a + r$.
The potential $V$ at point $P$ is the sum of potentials due to individual charges:
$V = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{q/2}{r+a} - \frac{q}{r} + \frac{q/2}{r-a} \right]$
Factoring out $q/2$:
$V = \frac{q}{8 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{1}{r+a} - \frac{2}{r} + \frac{1}{r-a} \right]$
Combining the terms:
$V = \frac{q}{8 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{r(r-a) - 2(r^2-a^2) + r(r+a)}{r(r^2-a^2)} \right]$
Simplifying the numerator:
$V = \frac{q}{8 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{r^2 - ar - 2r^2 + 2a^2 + r^2 + ar}{r(r^2-a^2)} \right] = \frac{q}{8 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{2a^2}{r(r^2-a^2)} \right]$
Since $r \gg a$,we can approximate $r^2 - a^2 \approx r^2$:
$V \approx \frac{q}{8 \pi \varepsilon_0} \cdot \frac{2a^2}{r^3} = \frac{q a^2}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^3}$
Solution diagram
408
DifficultMCQ
Along the $X$-axis,three charges $\frac{q}{2}, -q$ and $\frac{q}{2}$ are placed at $x=0, x=a$ and $x=2a$ respectively. The resultant electric potential at $x=a+r$ (if $a << r$) is: ($\varepsilon_0$ is the permittivity of free space)
A
$\frac{q a}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^2}$
B
$\frac{q a^2}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^3}$
C
$\frac{q(a^2/4)}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^3}$
D
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r}$

Solution

(B) The electric potential $V$ at a point due to a system of charges is the algebraic sum of the potentials due to individual charges.
Let the point $P$ be at $x = a + r$. The distances of the charges from $P$ are:
For charge $\frac{q}{2}$ at $x=0$: distance $d_1 = (a+r) - 0 = r+a$
For charge $-q$ at $x=a$: distance $d_2 = (a+r) - a = r$
For charge $\frac{q}{2}$ at $x=2a$: distance $d_3 = |(a+r) - 2a| = |r-a| = r-a$ (since $r >> a$)
The total potential $V_P$ is:
$V_P = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{q/2}{r+a} - \frac{q}{r} + \frac{q/2}{r-a} \right]$
$V_P = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{1}{2(r+a)} - \frac{1}{r} + \frac{1}{2(r-a)} \right]$
$V_P = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{r(r-a) - 2(r^2-a^2) + r(r+a)}{2r(r^2-a^2)} \right]$
$V_P = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{r^2 - ar - 2r^2 + 2a^2 + r^2 + ar}{2r(r^2-a^2)} \right]$
$V_P = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \left[ \frac{2a^2}{2r(r^2-a^2)} \right] = \frac{q a^2}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r(r^2-a^2)}$
Since $r >> a$,we have $r^2 - a^2 \approx r^2$.
Therefore,$V_P = \frac{q a^2}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r^3}$.
Solution diagram
409
DifficultMCQ
Two electric charges of $9 \mu C$ and $-3 \mu C$ are placed $0.16 \ m$ apart in air. There will be a point $P$ on the line joining the two charges and between them where the electric potential is zero. The distance of $P$ from the $9 \mu C$ charge is: (in $m$)
A
$0.14$
B
$0.12$
C
$0.08$
D
$0.06$

Solution

(B) Let $q_1 = 9 \mu C$ and $q_2 = -3 \mu C$. The distance between them is $d = 0.16 \ m$.
Let the point $P$ be at a distance $x$ from $q_1$. Then the distance of $P$ from $q_2$ is $(0.16 - x)$.
The electric potential $V$ at point $P$ due to both charges is the algebraic sum of the potentials:
$V = V_1 + V_2 = 0$
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} \frac{q_1}{x} + \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} \frac{q_2}{0.16 - x} = 0$
$\frac{9 \times 10^{-6}}{x} = - \frac{-3 \times 10^{-6}}{0.16 - x}$
$\frac{9}{x} = \frac{3}{0.16 - x}$
$3(0.16 - x) = x$
$0.48 - 3x = x$
$4x = 0.48$
$x = 0.12 \ m$
Thus,the distance of $P$ from the $9 \mu C$ charge is $0.12 \ m$.
Solution diagram
410
MediumMCQ
Two charges $+q$ and $-q$ are placed at points $A$ and $B$ respectively, which are at a distance $2L$ apart. $C$ is the midpoint of $A$ and $B$. The work done in moving a charge $+Q$ along the semicircle $CSD$ $(W_1)$ and along the line $CBD$ $(W_2)$ are:
Question diagram
A
$\frac{-Qq}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L}, \frac{-Qq}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L}$
B
$\frac{qQ}{4 \pi \epsilon_0 L}, \frac{qQ}{4 \pi \epsilon_0 L}$
C
$\frac{-Qq}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L}, \frac{-Qq}{12 \pi \epsilon_0 L}$
D
$\frac{qQ}{4 \pi \epsilon_0 L}, 0$

Solution

(A) The work done in moving a charge $Q$ in an electrostatic field is path-independent and depends only on the initial and final positions.
Work done $W = Q(V_{final} - V_{initial})$.
Here, the initial point is $C$ and the final point is $D$.
Distance $AC = L$, $CB = L$, $BD = L$.
Potential at $C$ $(V_C)$: $V_C = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} [\frac{q}{AC} + \frac{-q}{CB}] = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} [\frac{q}{L} - \frac{q}{L}] = 0$.
Potential at $D$ $(V_D)$: $V_D = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} [\frac{q}{AD} + \frac{-q}{BD}] = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} [\frac{q}{3L} - \frac{q}{L}] = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} [\frac{q - 3q}{3L}] = \frac{-2q}{12 \pi \epsilon_0 L} = \frac{-q}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L}$.
Since the electrostatic force is conservative, the work done along any path from $C$ to $D$ is the same:
$W_1 = W_2 = Q(V_D - V_C) = Q(\frac{-q}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L} - 0) = \frac{-Qq}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L}$.
Thus, $W_1 = W_2 = \frac{-Qq}{6 \pi \epsilon_0 L}$.
411
EasyMCQ
Consider two concentric conducting spheres of radii $R$ and $2R$ respectively. The inner sphere is given a charge $+Q$. The outer sphere is grounded. The potential at $r = \frac{3R}{2}$ is
A
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q}{6R}$
B
$0$
C
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{2Q}{3R}$
D
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q}{R}$

Solution

(A) Let $q$ be the charge appearing on the outer shell of radius $2R$ after earthing.
Since the outer shell is grounded, its potential must be zero.
The potential at the outer shell is the sum of potentials due to the inner charge $Q$ and the outer charge $q$:
$V_{\text{outer}} = \frac{KQ}{2R} + \frac{Kq}{2R} = 0$
Solving for $q$, we get $q = -Q$.
Now, we calculate the potential at a distance $r = \frac{3R}{2}$ from the center.
Since $R < r < 2R$, the point lies outside the inner sphere and inside the outer sphere.
The potential at this point is the sum of the potential due to the inner sphere (as a point charge) and the potential due to the outer shell (constant inside):
$V(r) = \frac{KQ}{r} + \frac{Kq}{2R}$
Substituting $r = \frac{3R}{2}$ and $q = -Q$:
$V = \frac{KQ}{3R/2} + \frac{K(-Q)}{2R} = \frac{2KQ}{3R} - \frac{KQ}{2R} = \frac{4KQ - 3KQ}{6R} = \frac{KQ}{6R} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q}{6R}$
Solution diagram
412
DifficultMCQ
Three concentric metallic shells $A, B$ and $C$ of radii $a, b$ and $c$ $(a < b < c)$ have surface charge densities $+\sigma, -\sigma$ and $+\sigma$ respectively. The potential of shell $B$ is
Question diagram
A
$\quad(a+b+c) \frac{\sigma}{\varepsilon_0}$
B
$\frac{\sigma c}{\varepsilon_0}$
C
$\left(\frac{a^2}{c}-\frac{b^2}{c}+c\right) \frac{\sigma}{\varepsilon_0}$
D
$\left(\frac{a^2}{b}-b+c\right) \frac{\sigma}{\varepsilon_0}$

Solution

(D) The potential at the surface of shell $B$ is the sum of potentials due to all three shells $A, B$ and $C$.
$V_B = V_{A,B} + V_{B,B} + V_{C,B}$
Since the potential inside a shell is constant and equal to the potential at its surface, we have:
$V_{A,B} = \frac{k Q_A}{b} = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \frac{\sigma(4\pi a^2)}{b} = \frac{\sigma a^2}{\varepsilon_0 b}$
$V_{B,B} = \frac{k Q_B}{b} = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \frac{-\sigma(4\pi b^2)}{b} = -\frac{\sigma b}{\varepsilon_0}$
$V_{C,B} = \frac{k Q_C}{c} = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \frac{\sigma(4\pi c^2)}{c} = \frac{\sigma c}{\varepsilon_0}$
Adding these, we get:
$V_B = \frac{\sigma a^2}{\varepsilon_0 b} - \frac{\sigma b}{\varepsilon_0} + \frac{\sigma c}{\varepsilon_0} = \frac{\sigma}{\varepsilon_0} \left( \frac{a^2}{b} - b + c \right)$
413
MediumMCQ
$A$ metal sphere of radius $R$ carrying charge $q$ is surrounded by a thick concentric metal shell of inner and outer radii $a$ and $b$ respectively. The net charge on the shell is zero. The potential at the centre of the sphere, when the outer surface of the shell is grounded, will be
A
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}}\left(\frac{1}{a}-\frac{1}{b}\right)$
B
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \frac{1}{a}$
C
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}}\left(\frac{1}{R}-\frac{1}{a}\right)$
D
$\frac{q}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \frac{1}{R}$

Solution

(C) $1$. The inner sphere has charge $q$. Due to induction, a charge $-q$ is induced on the inner surface of the shell (radius $a$).
$2$. Since the shell is grounded, its potential is zero. Let the charge on the outer surface (radius $b$) be $q'$. The total charge on the shell is $Q_{shell} = -q + q' = 0$, which implies $q' = q$. However, because the shell is grounded, the charge $q'$ flows to the ground, leaving the outer surface with zero charge. Thus, the inner surface of the shell has charge $-q$ and the outer surface has charge $0$.
$3$. The potential at the centre of the sphere is the sum of potentials due to the sphere (radius $R$, charge $q$), the inner surface of the shell (radius $a$, charge $-q$), and the outer surface of the shell (radius $b$, charge $0$).
$4$. $V_{centre} = V_{sphere} + V_{inner_shell} + V_{outer_shell} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \frac{q}{R} + \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \frac{-q}{a} + \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \frac{0}{b} = \frac{q}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \left( \frac{1}{R} - \frac{1}{a} \right)$.
Solution diagram
414
DifficultMCQ
$A$ point charge $-q$ is carried from a point $A$ to another point $B$ on the axis of a charged ring of radius $r$ carrying a charge $+q$. If the point $A$ is at a distance $\frac{4}{3} r$ from the centre of the ring and the point $B$ is $\frac{3}{4} r$ from the centre but on the opposite side, what is the net work that needs to be done for this?
A
$-\frac{7}{5} \cdot \frac{q^{2}}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} r}$
B
$-\frac{1}{5} \cdot \frac{q^{2}}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} r}$
C
$\frac{7}{5} \cdot \frac{q^{2}}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} r}$
D
$\frac{1}{5} \cdot \frac{q^{2}}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} r}$

Solution

(B) The potential $V$ at a distance $x$ from the center of a ring of radius $r$ carrying charge $q$ is given by $V = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{q}{\sqrt{x^{2} + r^{2}}}$.
For point $A$ at distance $x_A = \frac{4}{3}r$, the distance from the ring circumference is $d_A = \sqrt{(\frac{4}{3}r)^2 + r^2} = \sqrt{\frac{16}{9}r^2 + r^2} = \sqrt{\frac{25}{9}r^2} = \frac{5}{3}r$.
Thus, $V_A = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{q}{5r/3} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{3q}{5r}$.
For point $B$ at distance $x_B = \frac{3}{4}r$ on the opposite side, the distance from the ring circumference is $d_B = \sqrt{(\frac{3}{4}r)^2 + r^2} = \sqrt{\frac{9}{16}r^2 + r^2} = \sqrt{\frac{25}{16}r^2} = \frac{5}{4}r$.
Thus, $V_B = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{q}{5r/4} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{4q}{5r}$.
The work done $W$ in moving a charge $-q$ from $A$ to $B$ is $W = (-q)(V_B - V_A)$.
$W = -q \left( \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{4q}{5r} - \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{3q}{5r} \right) = -q \left( \frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{q}{5r} \right) = -\frac{1}{5} \cdot \frac{q^2}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} r}$.
Solution diagram
415
MediumMCQ
Two positive charges $Q$ and $4Q$ are placed at points $A$ and $B$ respectively, where $B$ is at a distance $d$ units to the right of $A$. The total electric potential due to these charges is minimum at point $P$ on the line segment joining $A$ and $B$. What is the distance of $P$ from $A$?
A
$\frac{d}{3}$ units to the right of $A$
B
$\frac{d}{3}$ units to the left of $A$
C
$\frac{d}{5}$ units to the right of $A$
D
$d$ units to the left of $A$

Solution

(A) The total electric potential $V$ at a point $P$ between the charges is given by $V = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \left( \frac{Q}{r} + \frac{4Q}{d-r} \right)$, where $r$ is the distance of $P$ from $A$.
For the potential to be minimum, we set $\frac{dV}{dr} = 0$.
$\frac{dV}{dr} = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \left( -\frac{Q}{r^2} + \frac{4Q}{(d-r)^2} \right) = 0$.
This implies $\frac{Q}{r^2} = \frac{4Q}{(d-r)^2}$, which is equivalent to the condition where the net electric field $E = 0$.
Taking the square root on both sides: $\frac{1}{r} = \frac{2}{d-r}$.
Solving for $r$: $d - r = 2r \Rightarrow 3r = d \Rightarrow r = \frac{d}{3}$.
Thus, the potential is minimum at a distance of $\frac{d}{3}$ units to the right of $A$.
Solution diagram
416
MediumMCQ
$A$ charge $+q$ is placed at the origin $O$ of $X-Y$ axes as shown in the figure. The work done in taking a charge $Q$ from $A$ to $B$ along the straight line $AB$ is
Question diagram
A
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}}\left(\frac{a-b}{a b}\right)$
B
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}}\left(\frac{b-a}{a b}\right)$
C
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}}\left(\frac{b}{a^{2}}-\frac{1}{b}\right)$
D
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}}\left(\frac{a}{b^{2}}-\frac{1}{b}\right)$

Solution

(A) The electric potential $V$ at a distance $r$ from a point charge $q$ is given by $V = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} r}$.
Since the electric field is conservative, the work done in moving a charge $Q$ from point $A$ to point $B$ is independent of the path and is given by $W = Q(V_B - V_A)$.
The potential at point $A(a, 0)$ is $V_A = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} a}$.
The potential at point $B(0, b)$ is $V_B = \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} b}$.
Therefore, the work done is $W = Q \left( \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} b} - \frac{q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0} a} \right)$.
$W = \frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \left( \frac{1}{b} - \frac{1}{a} \right) = \frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_{0}} \left( \frac{a - b}{a b} \right)$.
Solution diagram
417
MediumMCQ
The work done in carrying a charge $Q$ once around a circle of radius $r$ about a charge $q$ at the centre is
A
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0 r}$
B
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{1}{\pi r}$
C
$\frac{q Q}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0}\left(\frac{1}{2 \pi r}\right)$
D
$0$

Solution

(D) The electrostatic force is a conservative force.
By definition, the work done by a conservative force in moving a charge along any closed path is always zero.
Since the charge $Q$ is moved once around a circle, which is a closed path, the total work done is $0$.
418
EasyMCQ
Which one of the following is not a measurable quantity?
A
Voltage difference
B
Resistance
C
Voltage
D
Displacement current

Solution

(C) In physics, the absolute electric potential at a single point is not a uniquely measurable quantity because it depends on the choice of the reference point (where potential is assumed to be zero).
However, the potential difference (voltage) between two points is a well-defined and measurable quantity.
Resistance and displacement current are both physical quantities that can be measured directly using appropriate instruments.
Therefore,'Voltage' (when referring to absolute potential at a point) is not considered a measurable quantity in an absolute sense without a defined reference.
419
MediumMCQ
Two point charges of $1 \text{ nC}$ and $2 \text{ nC}$ are placed at two corners of an equilateral triangle of side $3 \text{ cm}$. The work done in bringing a charge of $3 \text{ nC}$ from infinity to the third corner of the triangle is . . . . . . $\mu\text{J}$. $( \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_{0}} = 9 \times 10^{9} \text{ N.m}^{2}/\text{C}^{2} )$
A
$2.7$
B
$5.4$
C
$3.3$
D
$27$

Solution

(A) The work done $W$ in bringing a charge $q_{3}$ to a point in the presence of charges $q_{1}$ and $q_{2}$ is given by the potential energy of the configuration:
$W = V \times q_{3} = (\frac{kq_{1}}{\ell} + \frac{kq_{2}}{\ell}) q_{3}$
Given: $q_{1} = 1 \times 10^{-9} \text{ C}$, $q_{2} = 2 \times 10^{-9} \text{ C}$, $q_{3} = 3 \times 10^{-9} \text{ C}$, $\ell = 3 \times 10^{-2} \text{ m}$, $k = 9 \times 10^{9} \text{ N.m}^{2}/\text{C}^{2}$.
Substituting the values:
$W = \frac{9 \times 10^{9}}{3 \times 10^{-2}} (1 \times 10^{-9} + 2 \times 10^{-9}) \times 3 \times 10^{-9}$
$W = (3 \times 10^{11}) \times (3 \times 10^{-9}) \times (3 \times 10^{-9})$
$W = 27 \times 10^{-7} \text{ J} = 2.7 \times 10^{-6} \text{ J} = 2.7 \text{ } \mu\text{J}$.
Solution diagram
420
MediumMCQ
There are three concentric conducting spherical shells $A$, $B$, and $C$ of radii $a$, $b$, and $c$ respectively. The potentials of the spheres $A$, $B$, and $C$ respectively are:
A
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{a}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{b}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{c}\right)$
B
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{a}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2}{b}+\frac{q_3}{c}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1}{a}+\frac{q_2}{b}+\frac{q_3}{c}\right)$
C
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1}{a}+\frac{q_2}{b}+\frac{q_3}{c}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2}{b}+\frac{q_3}{c}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{c}\right)$
D
$\frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1}{a}+\frac{q_2}{b}+\frac{q_3}{c}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{b}\right), \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}\left(\frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{c}\right)$

Solution

(C) The potential at any point on a conducting spherical shell is the sum of the potentials due to all the charges present on the shells.
For a point at distance $r$ from the center, the potential due to a shell of radius $R$ and charge $q$ is $\frac{kq}{R}$ if $r \le R$ and $\frac{kq}{r}$ if $r > R$.
For sphere $A$ (radius $a$): It is inside $B$ and $C$, so the potential is $V_A = \frac{kq_1}{a} + \frac{kq_2}{b} + \frac{kq_3}{c} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} \left( \frac{q_1}{a} + \frac{q_2}{b} + \frac{q_3}{c} \right)$.
For sphere $B$ (radius $b$): It is on the surface of $B$, inside $C$, and outside $A$. So, $V_B = \frac{kq_1}{b} + \frac{kq_2}{b} + \frac{kq_3}{c} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} \left( \frac{q_1+q_2}{b} + \frac{q_3}{c} \right)$.
For sphere $C$ (radius $c$): It is on the surface of $C$, and outside $A$ and $B$. So, $V_C = \frac{kq_1}{c} + \frac{kq_2}{c} + \frac{kq_3}{c} = \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0} \left( \frac{q_1+q_2+q_3}{c} \right)$.
Solution diagram
421
DifficultMCQ
As shown in the figure, charges $+q, +q, -q$ and $-q$ are placed on the vertices of a square, each side length is $2l$. The electric potential at the mid-point '$A$' of the charges $+q$ and $+q$ is . . . . . . .
Question diagram
A
Zero
B
$\frac{2kq}{l}[1+\frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}]$
C
$\frac{kq}{l}[1-\frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}]$
D
$\frac{2kq}{l}[1-\frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}]$

Solution

(D) Point '$A$' is at a distance $l$ from the top $+q$ charge and the bottom $+q$ charge.
The distance from point '$A$' to both $-q$ charges is $\sqrt{(2l)^2 + l^2} = \sqrt{4l^2 + l^2} = \sqrt{5l^2} = l\sqrt{5}$.
The electric potential $V$ at point '$A$' due to all four charges is given by the sum of potentials from each charge:
$V_A = k(\frac{q}{l} + \frac{q}{l} - \frac{q}{l\sqrt{5}} - \frac{q}{l\sqrt{5}})$
$V_A = k(\frac{2q}{l} - \frac{2q}{l\sqrt{5}})$
$V_A = \frac{2kq}{l}(1 - \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}})$
Therefore, option $(D)$ is correct.
422
MediumMCQ
Charge $1.6 \times 10^{-7} \text{ C}$ is distributed uniformly over the surface of a spherical conductor of radius $R$. The ratio of the electric potential inside the spherical conductor to the electric field on the surface is . . . . . . .
A
$1.6 \times 10^{-7} R^2$
B
$R$
C
$1.6 \times 10^{-7} R$
D
$\frac{1}{R}$

Solution

(B) The electric potential $V$ inside a spherical conductor is constant and equal to the potential on its surface, given by $V = \frac{kq}{R}$.
The electric field $E$ on the surface of the spherical conductor is given by $E = \frac{kq}{R^2}$.
To find the ratio of the electric potential inside to the electric field on the surface, we calculate:
$\frac{V}{E} = \frac{kq/R}{kq/R^2} = \frac{kq}{R} \times \frac{R^2}{kq} = R$.
Therefore, the ratio is $R$. Option $(B)$ is correct.
423
MediumMCQ
The total charge on a uniformly charged spherical shell having radius $R$ is $Q$. Then electric potential at a distance $r = R/2$ from the centre of the shell is . . . . . . .
A
$Q / 4\pi\epsilon_0 R$
B
$Q / \pi\epsilon_0 R$
C
$Q / 2\pi\epsilon_0 R$
D
$Q / 8\pi\epsilon_0 R$

Solution

(A) For a uniformly charged spherical shell, the electric potential at any point inside the shell is constant and equal to the potential at its surface.
The potential at the surface of the shell is given by $V = \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0} \frac{Q}{R}$.
Since the distance $r = R/2$ is less than the radius $R$ (i.e.,the point is inside the shell), the electric potential at this point is the same as the potential at the surface.
Therefore, the potential at $r = R/2$ is $V = \frac{Q}{4\pi \epsilon_0 R}$.
424
DifficultMCQ
$A$ unit positive point charge is taken slowly through an infinitesimally thin tube that is inside a charged dielectric sphere of radius $R$, having uniform positive charge density $\rho$. The initial and final positions of the charge are marked by $A$ and $B$ at distances $2R$ and $3R$ respectively, from the centre of the sphere. In this process, the magnitude of the total work done on the point charge is $\frac{\rho R^2}{n \epsilon_0}$. The value of $n$ is : ($\epsilon_0$ is the permittivity of vacuum)
Question diagram
A
$2$
B
$6$
C
$9$
D
$18$

Solution

(D) The work done by an external agent in moving a charge $q$ slowly from point $A$ to point $B$ is given by $W = q(V_B - V_A)$.
Since the charge is a unit positive point charge, $q = 1$, so $W = V_B - V_A$.
The potential at a distance $r$ from the center of a uniformly charged dielectric sphere of radius $R$ is:
For $r \ge R$, $V(r) = \frac{Q}{4\pi\epsilon_0 r}$, where $Q = \rho \cdot \frac{4}{3}\pi R^3$.
Thus, $V(r) = \frac{\rho \cdot \frac{4}{3}\pi R^3}{4\pi\epsilon_0 r} = \frac{\rho R^3}{3\epsilon_0 r}$.
Given $r_A = 2R$ and $r_B = 3R$, we have:
$V_A = \frac{\rho R^3}{3\epsilon_0 (2R)} = \frac{\rho R^2}{6\epsilon_0}$
$V_B = \frac{\rho R^3}{3\epsilon_0 (3R)} = \frac{\rho R^2}{9\epsilon_0}$
The work done is $W = |V_B - V_A| = |\frac{\rho R^2}{9\epsilon_0} - \frac{\rho R^2}{6\epsilon_0}| = |\frac{2\rho R^2 - 3\rho R^2}{18\epsilon_0}| = \frac{\rho R^2}{18\epsilon_0}$.
Comparing this with $\frac{\rho R^2}{n \epsilon_0}$, we get $n = 18$.
425
DifficultMCQ
Consider a fixed uniformly charged insulating sphere with radius $R$ and total charge $+Q$. $A$ point charge $-q$ $(q \ll Q)$ with mass $m$ is released from rest at a distance of $3R$ from the centre of the charged sphere. When the point charge reaches the surface of the sphere, its speed is:
($\epsilon_0$ is the permittivity of vacuum, neglect gravitational forces).
A
$\sqrt{\frac{3Qq}{4\pi \epsilon_0 mR}}$
B
$\sqrt{\frac{2Qq}{3\pi \epsilon_0 mR}}$
C
$\sqrt{\frac{Qq}{3\pi \epsilon_0 mR}}$
D
$\sqrt{\frac{Qq}{4\pi \epsilon_0 mR}}$

Solution

(C) The potential at a distance $r$ from the center of a uniformly charged insulating sphere of radius $R$ and charge $Q$ is given by:
For $r \ge R$, $V(r) = \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0} \frac{Q}{r}$.
For $r < R$, $V(r) = \frac{Q}{4\pi \epsilon_0 R} \left( \frac{3}{2} - \frac{r^2}{2R^2} \right)$.
At the surface $(r = R)$, $V(R) = \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0} \frac{Q}{R}$.
At the initial position $(r = 3R)$, $V(3R) = \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0} \frac{Q}{3R}$.
By the law of conservation of energy, the change in kinetic energy equals the change in potential energy:
$\Delta K + \Delta U = 0 \implies \frac{1}{2}mv^2 - 0 = -q(V(R) - V(3R))$.
$\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = q(V(3R) - V(R)) = q \left( \frac{Q}{12\pi \epsilon_0 R} - \frac{Q}{4\pi \epsilon_0 R} \right)$.
$\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = \frac{Qq}{4\pi \epsilon_0 R} \left( \frac{1}{3} - 1 \right) = \frac{Qq}{4\pi \epsilon_0 R} \left( -\frac{2}{3} \right)$.
Since the charge is negative, it moves towards the positive sphere, gaining kinetic energy. The magnitude of potential difference is $|V(3R) - V(R)| = \frac{2Qq}{12\pi \epsilon_0 R} = \frac{Qq}{6\pi \epsilon_0 R}$.
$\frac{1}{2}mv^2 = \frac{Qq}{6\pi \epsilon_0 R} \implies v^2 = \frac{Qq}{3\pi \epsilon_0 mR} \implies v = \sqrt{\frac{Qq}{3\pi \epsilon_0 mR}}$.
426
MediumMCQ
The electric potential at the center $O$ of two concentric half rings of radii $R_1$ and $R_2$, having the same linear charge density $\lambda$, is $(\epsilon_0 = \text{permittivity of free space})$:
Question diagram
A
$\frac{2\lambda}{\epsilon_0}$
B
$\frac{\lambda}{2\epsilon_0}$
C
$\frac{\lambda}{4\epsilon_0}$
D
$\frac{\lambda}{\epsilon_0}$

Solution

(B) The electric potential $V$ due to a small charge element $dq$ at a distance $r$ is given by $dV = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{dq}{r}$.
For a half ring of radius $R$ and linear charge density $\lambda$, the total charge is $q = \lambda \times (\pi R)$.
Since all points on the half ring are at the same distance $R$ from the center, the potential at the center is $V = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q}{R} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{\lambda \pi R}{R} = \frac{\lambda}{4\epsilon_0}$.
For two concentric half rings of radii $R_1$ and $R_2$ with the same linear charge density $\lambda$, the total potential at the center $O$ is the sum of the potentials due to each half ring:
$V_{total} = V_1 + V_2 = \frac{\lambda}{4\epsilon_0} + \frac{\lambda}{4\epsilon_0} = \frac{2\lambda}{4\epsilon_0} = \frac{\lambda}{2\epsilon_0}$.
427
DifficultMCQ
Two charges $q_1$ and $q_2$ are fixed at points $A$ and $B$ respectively, separated by a distance of $30 \text{ cm}$. $A$ third charge $q_3$ is moved along a circular path of radius $40 \text{ cm}$ from point $C$ to point $D$. If the difference in potential energy due to the movement of $q_3$ from $C$ to $D$ is $q_3 K / (4 \pi \epsilon_0)$, find the value of $K$. (Given: $AC = 40 \text{ cm}$, $AB = 30 \text{ cm}$, $AD = 40 \text{ cm}$)
Question diagram
A
$8q_2$
B
$8q_1$
C
$6q_2$
D
$6q_1$

Solution

(A) The potential energy $U$ of a system of charges is given by $U = \sum \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q_i q_j}{r_{ij}}$.
Since $q_1$ and $q_2$ are fixed, the change in potential energy $\Delta U$ depends only on the change in the interaction energy of $q_3$ with $q_1$ and $q_2$.
At point $C$: $r_{1C} = 40 \text{ cm} = 0.4 \text{ m}$, $r_{2C} = \sqrt{AC^2 + AB^2} = \sqrt{40^2 + 30^2} = 50 \text{ cm} = 0.5 \text{ m}$.
Potential at $C$ due to $q_1, q_2$ is $V_C = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} (\frac{q_1}{0.4} + \frac{q_2}{0.5})$.
At point $D$: $r_{1D} = 40 \text{ cm} = 0.4 \text{ m}$, $r_{2D} = AD - AB = 40 - 30 = 10 \text{ cm} = 0.1 \text{ m}$.
Potential at $D$ due to $q_1, q_2$ is $V_D = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} (\frac{q_1}{0.4} + \frac{q_2}{0.1})$.
Change in potential energy $\Delta U = q_3(V_D - V_C) = \frac{q_3}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [(\frac{q_1}{0.4} + \frac{q_2}{0.1}) - (\frac{q_1}{0.4} + \frac{q_2}{0.5})]$.
$\Delta U = \frac{q_3}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [\frac{q_2}{0.1} - \frac{q_2}{0.5}] = \frac{q_3}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [10q_2 - 2q_2] = \frac{q_3}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [8q_2]$.
Comparing with $\frac{q_3 K}{4\pi\epsilon_0}$, we get $K = 8q_2$.
428
DifficultMCQ
Two equal positive charges each of value $q$ are placed at points $A$ and $B$, where $AB = 3x$. A third charge $-3q$ is placed at point $C$ at a distance $x$ from $A$ on the line segment $AB$. The potential energy of the system is nearly ($\epsilon_0$ = permittivity of free space).
A
$\frac{q^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0x}$
B
$-\frac{2q^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0x}$
C
$\frac{3q^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0x}$
D
$-\frac{4q^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0x}$

Solution

(D) The potential energy $U$ of a system of point charges is given by $U = \sum \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q_i q_j}{r_{ij}}$.
Here, we have three charges:
$q_A = q$ at point $A$.
$q_B = q$ at point $B$.
$q_C = -3q$ at point $C$.
Given distances:
$AC = x$.
$AB = 3x$, so $CB = AB - AC = 3x - x = 2x$.
Now, calculate the potential energy for each pair:
$U_{AB} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q_A q_B}{AB} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q \cdot q}{3x} = \frac{q^2}{12\pi\epsilon_0x}$.
$U_{AC} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q_A q_C}{AC} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q \cdot (-3q)}{x} = -\frac{3q^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0x}$.
$U_{CB} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q_C q_B}{CB} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{(-3q) \cdot q}{2x} = -\frac{3q^2}{8\pi\epsilon_0x}$.
Total potential energy $U = U_{AB} + U_{AC} + U_{CB} = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0x} [\frac{q^2}{3} - 3q^2 - 1.5q^2] = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0x} [\frac{q^2}{3} - 4.5q^2] = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0x} [\frac{q^2 - 13.5q^2}{3}] = -\frac{12.5q^2}{12\pi\epsilon_0x} \approx -\frac{4q^2}{4\pi\epsilon_0x}$ (approximately).
Thus, the correct option is $D$.
429
DifficultMCQ
Four electric charges $+q, +q, -q$, and $-q$ are placed in order at the corners of a square of side $2r$. The electric potential at a point midway between the two negative charges is
A
$\frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{2q}{r} [\frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} - 1]$
B
$\frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q}{r} [\frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} + 1]$
C
$\frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{2q}{r} [1 - \sqrt{5}]$
D
$\frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{q}{r} [1 + \sqrt{5}]$

Solution

(A) Let the square be $ABCD$ with side length $a = 2r$. The charges are placed at corners: $A(+q), B(+q), C(-q), D(-q)$.
Let the point $P$ be the midpoint between the two negative charges at $C$ and $D$.
The distance from $P$ to $C$ is $r$ and from $P$ to $D$ is $r$.
The distance from $P$ to $A$ is $\sqrt{(2r)^2 + r^2} = \sqrt{5r^2} = r\sqrt{5}$.
The distance from $P$ to $B$ is $\sqrt{(2r)^2 + r^2} = r\sqrt{5}$.
The electric potential $V$ at point $P$ is the sum of potentials due to all four charges: $V = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [\frac{q}{r_A} + \frac{q}{r_B} + \frac{-q}{r_C} + \frac{-q}{r_D}]$.
Substituting the distances: $V = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [\frac{q}{r\sqrt{5}} + \frac{q}{r\sqrt{5}} - \frac{q}{r} - \frac{q}{r}]$.
$V = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} [\frac{2q}{r\sqrt{5}} - \frac{2q}{r}]$.
$V = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac{2q}{r} [\frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} - 1]$.
430
MediumMCQ
$A$ charge $Q$ is placed at each corner of a cube of side $r$. The potential at the centre of the cube is ($\epsilon_0$ = permittivity of free space).
A
$\frac{4Q}{\pi\epsilon_0r\sqrt{3}}$
B
$\frac{8Q}{\pi\epsilon_0r\sqrt{3}}$
C
$\frac{16Q}{3\pi\epsilon_0r}$
D
$\frac{32Q}{\pi\epsilon_0r\sqrt{3}}$

Solution

(A) cube has $8$ corners. Let the side length of the cube be $r$.
The distance from any corner of the cube to its centre is half of the body diagonal.
The body diagonal of a cube with side $r$ is $d = r\sqrt{3}$.
Therefore, the distance $a$ from each corner to the centre is $a = \frac{r\sqrt{3}}{2}$.
The electric potential $V$ due to a point charge $Q$ at a distance $a$ is given by $V = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \cdot \frac{Q}{a}$.
Since there are $8$ identical charges at the corners, the total potential at the centre is the sum of the potentials due to each charge:
$V_{total} = 8 \times \left( \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0} \cdot \frac{Q}{a} \right) = \frac{8Q}{4\pi\epsilon_0 \cdot (\frac{r\sqrt{3}}{2})} = \frac{8Q}{2\pi\epsilon_0 r\sqrt{3}} = \frac{4Q}{\pi\epsilon_0 r\sqrt{3}}$.
Thus, the correct option is $A$.
431
DifficultMCQ
$A$ $200 \text{ J}$ of work is done in moving a charge of $5 \text{ C}$ from a point $A$ where the potential is $-20 \text{ V}$ to another point $B$ where the potential is $V \text{ V}$. The value of $V$ at point $B$ is: (in $text{ V}$)
A
$10$
B
$20$
C
$40$
D
$60$

Solution

(B) The work done $W$ in moving a charge $q$ from point $A$ to point $B$ is given by $W = q(V_B - V_A)$.
Given: $W = 200 \text{ J}$, $q = 5 \text{ C}$, $V_A = -20 \text{ V}$, $V_B = V$.
Substituting the values: $200 = 5 \times (V - (-20))$.
$200 = 5 \times (V + 20)$.
$40 = V + 20$.
$V = 40 - 20 = 20 \text{ V}$.
Thus, the potential at point $B$ is $20 \text{ V}$.

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