An electric dipole placed in a uniform electric field experiences
Correct answer: B. a torque but no net force
- A. a net force but no torque
- B. a torque but no net force
- C. neither force nor torque
- D. both a large net force and a torque
Explanation
The equal and opposite charges feel equal and opposite forces in a uniform field, so the forces cancel, but because they act along different lines they form a couple that turns the dipole into alignment with the field. In a non uniform field the two forces differ in size and a net force does appear. This turning effect is how polar molecules align in a dielectric.
Report an error
The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.
Prefer email? support@testustad.com
About Electric Field
An electric field is the force experienced per unit positive test charge, with the field of a point charge given by E = kQ/r² and directed away from positive charges or toward negative charges. Questions involve field lines, superposition and force on a charge, while electric field must be distinguished from electric potential.
Practise Electrostatics
831 free Electrostatics MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Discussion
Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.
No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.
Exams that ask Physics questions like this
Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.
More Electric Field questions
Charge on a charged conductor resides
Inside a hollow charged conductor in electrostatic equilibrium, the electric field is
Electric field lines
A million electron are added to a pith ball. Its charge is________?
A cube of side 5 cm has a charge of 6 C. The surface density of charge is_________?
The branch of Physics which deals with properties of gravitational?