Question:
The angle between the electric lines of force and the equipotential surface is:
The angle between the electric lines of force and the equipotential surface is:
Updated On: May 3, 2025
- 0°
- 45°
- 90°
- 180°
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
The angle between electric lines of force and an equipotential surface is 90°. This is because an equipotential surface is a surface on which all points have the same electric potential. Electric field lines, by definition, are directed along the direction of the greatest rate of decrease of potential. Therefore, they are perpendicular to the equipotential surfaces.
To understand why this is the case, consider: if electric lines of force were not perpendicular, there would be a component of the electric field along the equipotential surface, causing work to be done on a charge moving along the surface. This contradicts the definition of an equipotential surface, where no work is needed to move a charge, reinforcing that the electric field and hence the lines of force must be perpendicular or make an angle of 90° with it.
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Notes on Electric Potential And Potential Difference
Concepts Used:
Electrostatic Potential
The electrostatic potential is also known as the electric field potential, electric potential, or potential drop is defined as “The amount of work that is done in order to move a unit charge from a reference point to a specific point inside the field without producing an acceleration.”
SI Unit of Electrostatic Potential:
SI unit of electrostatic potential - volt
Other units - statvolt
Symbol of electrostatic potential - V or φ
Dimensional formula - ML2T3I-1
Electric Potential Formula:
The electric potential energy of the system is given by the following formula:
U = 1/(4πεº) × [q1q2/d]
Where q1 and q2 are the two charges that are separated by the distance d.