An electric charge 10-3 µC is placed at origin (0, 0). Two points A and B are situated at (√2, √2) and (2, 0) respectively. The potential difference between points A and B will be:
Correct answer: B. Zero
- A. 9 volts
- B. Zero
- C. 2 volts
- D. 4.5 volts
Explanation
The electric potential at any point due to a point charge is given by V = kQ/r, where k is Coulomb's constant, Q is the charge, and r is the distance from the charge to the point. For points A and B, the potential difference (VA - VB) relies on their respective distances from the charge. Since both points A and B are equally distanced from the charge (i.e., rA = rB), the potential difference is zero. This confirms that the correct answer is zero. The other options are incorrect as they propose non-zero values, which do not align with the condition of equidistant points having zero potential difference.
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Electrostatics describes forces between charges through Coulomb's law, electric fields and field intensity, then uses electric potential to measure energy per unit charge. Capacitors store charge and electrical energy, with capacitance depending on geometry and dielectric material, not simply on the amount of charge present.
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