Question

Considering a group of positive charges, which of the following statements is correct ?

• A. Net potential of the system cannot be zero at a point but net electric field can be zero at that point.
• B. Net potential of the system at a point can be zero but net electric field can't be zero at that point.
• C. Both the net potential and the net electric field cannot be zero at a point.
• D. Both the net potential and the net field can be zero at a point.

Hint:

The electric field is related to the gradient of potential, so it is possible for the field to be zero even when the potential is nonzero.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

\(V=\frac{\sum KQ_i}{r_i}\)
Here , \(Q_i\) and \(r_i\) are positive
Therefore V > 0
So , the correct option is (A) : Net potential of the system cannot be zero at a point but net electric field can be zero at that point.

Answer 2

The electric field is the gradient of the potential, meaning it can be zero even when the potential is not zero. 
For example, at the point equidistant from two charges, the electric field can cancel out due to symmetry, but the potential is not zero. Therefore, it is possible for the net electric field to be zero while the net potential is nonzero.