1/62 "PnaxCee^ ^ Fundamental Physics (XII)

8. When an electric dipole of moment P is held at an angle 0 with the direction of a uniform electric field E,

a torque t acts on the dipole, given by : x = p x £ = sin 6, in magnitude.

This torque tries to align the dipole in the direction of the field, reducing angle 0 to zero.

To orient the dipole at any other angle with E , work has to be done on the dipole, which is stored as P.E.
^ -*
of dipole given by : P.E. = -p£cos0 = - p.E
9. Electric Flux over an area in an electric field represents the total number of electric field lines crossing this
area. It is represented by ([>£●
Electric flux is a scalar quantity, and is measured in Nnp- C“^
According to Gauss’s theorem in electrostatics, total normal electric flux over a closed surface S in vacuum
is 1/€q time the total charge (Q) contained inside the surface,

ww
f ^ Q
= o [Link] = —
s ^0

Floo
Coulomb’s law of force can be obtained from Gauss’s theorem. This theorem can be used for calculating
electric field intensity due to highly symmetric charge distributions.

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eer
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QUESTIONS

Based on NCERT Book

rur
I. Multiple Choice Questions
s ffoor FIGURE 1(Q).3
1. According to Coulomb’s law, which is the correct
osk
YYoou
relation for the following figure ? I 1
oook

I I

2 1
■►X o >X
eBB

FIGURE 1(Q).1 O +
2
4 6 4 6

-E -E

^2 (6)
r

Fi2 ^21 (a)

ouur
ad

(«) >0 (b) <0

Y

—I

I 4 6
«l \—►X O
^4-^X
nd dY

o + +
(C) ^1^2 = 0 (d) I > — >o 2
Re

2 I I

^2 I j
I
FFini

(CBSE Sample Paper 2022-23) (c) id)

2. The electric potential V as a function of distance X
is shown in Fig. 1(Q).2. (CBSE Sample Paper 2022-23)
18
3. An object has a charge of 1 C and gains 5-0 x 10
FIGURE 1(Q).2
electrons. The net charge on the object becomes
(fl)-0'80C (b) + 0-80 C
(c)+ 1-80C (d) + 0-20 C
(CBSE 2022)
4. A negatively charged object X is repelled by another
charged object Y. However, an object Z is attracted
X to object Y. Which of the following is the most
possibility for object Z ?
(a) positively charged only
The graph of the magnitude of electric field (£) as
a function of X is (b) negatively charged only
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/63

(c) neutral or positively charged {a)2E {b)E

{d)EIA (CBSK 2022)
{d) neutral or negatively charged (CBSE 2022) (c) EH
5. In a chamber, three spheres carry charges + 3 e, 10. A square sheet of side ‘a’ is lying parallel to XF
+ 5 e and - 3 e. They came in contact for a moment plane at z = o. The electric field in the region is
and got separated. Which one of the following are
possible values for the final charges on the
~E=cz^k . The electric flux through the sheet is
spheres ?
(a) ib) Zero
(a) + 5 e, - 4 e, + 5 e
(/?) + 6 e, + 6 e, - 7 c
1 4
(c) - 4 e, + 3-5 e, + 5-5 e (c) c {d) -fl^c (CBSE 2022)

oww
id) + 5 e,-Z e,-¥l e (CBSE 2022)
11. An electric dipole placed in a non-uniform electric
6. The electric potential on the axis of an electric field will experience
dipole at a distance r from its centre is V. Then the ib) only a torque
(a) only a force
potential at a point at the same distance on its
(c) both, force and torque

ee
equatorial line will be
(CBSE 2022)

FFrlo
{a)lV {b)-V {d) neither force nor torque

r
(c) V/2 {d) Zero 12. Let A^j be the number of electric field lines going

rF
ee
(CBSE Siimplf Paper 2022-23) out of an imaginary cube of side a, that enclosed
an isolated point charge 2 q and A^2
7. A potential difference of200 V is maintained across corresponding number for an imaginary sphere of

rF
ouru
a conductor of resistance 100 The number of
radius a that encloses an isolated point charge 3 q.
electrons passing through it in 1 second is

fosor
18 Then N\!N2 is
(a) 1-25 X 10^^ {b) 2-5 X 10 skf
18 16 I 2
(c) 1-25 X 10 (d) 2-5 X 10 (a) - (^>3
ooko
K
(CBSE 2022)
Yo
9
Y
8. Which of the diagrams correctly represents the (CBSE 2022)
{d)n
Bo

electric field between two charged plates if a

reeB

neutral conductor is placed inbetween the plates ? 13. Which statement is true for Gauss Law ?

FIGURE 1(Q).4
(a) All the charges whether inside or outside the
ooY

Gaussian surface contribute to electric flux

uur
ad

+ + +
(b) Electric flux depends upon the geometry of the
Gaussian surface
dY

1 (c) Gauss’s theorem can be applied to non-uniform

nind

] [Z Z] electric field
Re

(a) (6) (d) The electric field over the Gaussian surface
FFi

remains continuous and uniform at every

+ +
±] ±]
point
14. In the process of charging, a positively charged
body
(a) loses mass (i?) gains mass
ic) id) (c) neither of the two
(d) depends on conditions
(CBSE 2022)

9. The magnitude of electric field due to a point 15. Electric flux of an electric field E through an area
charge 2 ^ at a distance r is E. Then the magnitude
dA is given by
of electric field due to a uniformly charged thin
spherical shell of radius R with total charge ^ at a E
(«) — (b) E-dA
distance — (r » R) will be dA
2
 1/64
“Pn/idee^ 4 Fundamental Physics (XII) VOL.I

(c) Conservation of mass

EdA ExdA
ic) id) id) Quantisation of charge
^0 ^0 24. SI unit of surface integral of electric field is
(CBSE 2622) ia) Nm^ C-2 ib) Nm-2
16. A charge Q is placed at the centre of the line joining ic) Nm^ C"> id) Nm C~2
two charges q and q. The system of three charges 25. The relation between electric intensity (£) and
will be in equilibrium if Q is electric flux <j) is
ia)-qn ih)-qll
r a

ia) ^ = OE-ds = — ib) <^ = ~

(i/) - q/4 (CBSE 2022) ^0 ^0

17. Two point charges + 16 ^ and - 4 q are located at

ww
(c) (}) = — id) none of these
j: = 0 and x = L The location of the point on x-axis ^0
at which resultant electric field due to these charges
is zero is 26. What does q^ + q2 = 0 signify ?

FF loo
ia)L ib)6L ia) Electric potential ib) Electric intensity
ic)4L id)2L (CBSE 2022) (c) Electric dipole id) None of these

ree
18. An electric dipole of dipole moment 4 x 10"^ Cm 27. 1 stat-Coulomb = Coulomb
kept in a uniform electric field of 10”^ N/C ia) 3 X 10^

reeF
ib) 3x10-^
experiences a torque of 2 x 10^ N-m. The angle
which the dipole makes with the electric field is (c)ixlO^ id) -xlO-^
ur
ia) 30°
(c) 60°
(i>)45°
id) 90° (CBSE 2020)
fofroF
28. When a plastic comb is passed through dry hair,
ks
the charge acquired by the comb is
19. Which of the following is a vector quantity ?
ia) always negative
kos o
YYouor
ia) Electric charge ib) Electric flux
ic) Electric field
ib) always positive
id) Electric potential
BBoo

ic) sometimes negative

20. Electric field lines contract longitudinally. This is
r ee

because of id) none of the above

(a) attraction between unlike charges 29. The cause of quantization of electric charge is
ad
oouur

ia) transfer of electrons

ib) repulsion between like charges
Y

(c) both ia) and ib) ib) transfer of protons

id) neither (a) nor ib) (c) transfer of integral number of electrons
nYd
Re

21. Charge on a conducting sphere resides id) none of the above

FFindi

ia) inside the sphere 30. Charge on a body which carries 200 excess
electrons is
ib) at the centre of the sphere
(a) - 3-2 X 10“^^ C ib) 3-2 x ICT*® C
(c) outside the sphere
(c)-3-2x Ur'^^C id) 3-2 X 10‘ 17 c
id) on the outer surface of the sphere
31. Electric field due to a single charge is
22. Four charges + 5Q,-3Q, + 2Q,-4Qaie enclosed
inside some surface. What will be the outgoing flux ia) asymmetric ib) cylindricallysymmetric
through the surface (c) spherically symmetric
(a) 14V-m ib) Zero id) none of the above
ic) 4 V-m id)-4 V-m 32. At a given distance from the centre of short electric
23. Charge on a body is integral multiple of ± e where dipole, field intensity on axial line is k times the
e is electronic charge. This is because of field intensity on equatorial line, where k =
ia)2 ib)3
ia) Conservation of charge
ib) Quantisation of charge ic)4 id) 1
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/65

33. Electric field due to an electric dipole is 41. For a point charge, the graph between electric field
versus distance is given by :
(n) spherically symmetric
{b) cylindrically symmetric FIGURE

(c) asymmetric
(d) none of the above
34. When an electric dipole is held at an angle in a
uniform electric field, the net force F and torque T
on the dipole are
(a)F=0,T = 0 (/>) F 0, X 0

oww
(c)F=0,x^0 {d)F^0,'C = 0
35. The dimensional formula of electric flux is

id) A~^\ {/?)

e
(c) (d)

FFrlo
re
36. A closed surface in vacuum encloses charges - q 42. Four charges + SQ ~3 Q + 5 Q and - 10 2 are kept
inside a closed surface. What will be the outgoing
and + 3 Another charge - 2 q lies outside the

Free
surface. Total electric flux over the surface is flux through the surface,
(a) 26V-m (fc) 0 V - m
(b) 2 q/GQ

rF
(a) zero
(c) lOV-m id) 8 V - m
3? 43. On charging a neutral balloon, its size-

fsoor
ouur
(c) - (d) 4 q/eQ
^0 fa) Increases
skf
37, The number of electric lines of force radiating from (b) Decreases
ooko
a closed surface in vacuum is 1-13 x 10**. The (c) Remains same
Yo
Y
charge enclosed by the surface is (d) No relation between charge and size
Bo

44. Electric field lines contract lengthwise. It shows

reB

(a) 1C (i.)lliC
(c) 0-1 C (^/)0-l (a) Repulsion between same charges
(b) Attraction between opposite charges
38. Two charges 3- x 10'^ C and 5 x 10"* C are placed
uur
ooY

(c) No relation between force & contraction

ad

at a distance 10 cm from each other. Find the value

of electrostatic force acting between them. (d) Electric field lines do not move on straight
dY

path
(a) 13-5 X 10" N ib) 40 X 10'* N
45. A charge q is placed at the point of interrection of
innd
Re

(c) ISOxlO^N (^0 13-5 X 10*0 N body diagonals of a cube. The electric flux passing
39. What is the S.I. unit of electric flux ? through any one of its face is
FFi

3q
N
«.) - xrn^ ib) Nxm^ (a) ^
6e
(b) —
0

6q
N N'^ ic) ^ id) -A
jxC^
36
ic) id) ^0 0
m m
(CBSE Sample Paper 2020)
40. What is the value of minimum force acting between
two charges each of charge e placed at I m apart II. Assertion-Reason Type Questions
from each other ?
Direction. For question numbers 46 to 53, two
(a) Ke^ ib) Ke statements are given, one labelled Assertion (A)
and the other labelled Reason (R). Select the
Ke Ke^
correct answer to these questions from the codes
(a), (A), (c) and (d) as given below :
1/66
‘P’uidcefr ^ Fundamental Physics (XII) VOLJ

(a) Both, A and R are true, and R is correct 49. Assertion. Two identical charges repel each other
explanation of A. with a force equal to 10 mg wt, when they are 0-6 m
(b) Both, A and R are true, but R is not the correct apart in air. The value of each charge is 2 pC and
explanation of A. g = 10 ms"^.
(c) A is true, but R is false. Reason. Like charges repel each other.
(d) A is false, and R is also false. 50. Assertion. If sum of two charges and ^2 is
46. Assertion. The ratio of the electric force between then the force between and ^2will be maximum

two protons to that between two electrons is of the

if the ratio Qlq^ is 2.
order of one. Reason. The coulomb force between the two
charges is
Reason. The like charges repel each other.
1
47. Assertion. A force of 40 N acting between two F =
'}
charges certain distance apart in air. If the space 471s
0
r~

ww
between them is filled with a medium of relative
51. Assertion. When a conducting medium is placed
permittivity 8, then the force between the same two
between two charges then the electric force
charge is 5 N. between them will become infinite.
Reason. The coulomb’s force between two charges

Flo
Reason. The addition of conducting medium
qi and ^2 placed distance r apart in medium of between two charges reduces the distance to zero.

e
relative permittivity e ^ is

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52. Assertion. The number of electric lines of force
emanating from 1 pC charge in vacuum is M3x 10*.

r FF
1 ^2
F =
,2 Reason. It follows from Gauss’s Law in electro
statics.
uurr
48. Assertion. The coulomb force is the dominating
force in the universe. for
53. Assertion. The number of electrons in one coulomb
of charge is 6-25 x 10“**.
kss
Reason. The coulomb force is weaker than the
Reason. This follows from the relation q = ne^,
ooook

gravitational force.
Yo
where symbols have usual meaning.
eBB

ANSWERS

I. Multiple Choice Questions

rr
ou
ad

l-ib) 2. (a) 3. (d) 4. (c) 5. (b.c) 6. (d) 7. ia) 8. id) 9. ia) 10. (c)
11. (c) 12. (b) 13. (d)
Y

14. ia) 15. (b) 16. id) 17. (a) 18. ia) 19. (c) 20. ia)
dY

21. id) 22. (b) 23.(b) 24. ic) 25. (a) 26. (c) 27. id) 28. ia) 29. (c) 30. (c)
31. (c) 32. (a) 33. ib) 34. ic) 35. (c)
Re

36. ib) 37. ia) 38. ia) 39. ia) 40. ia)
innd

41. ib) 42. (b) 43. (a) 44. ib) 45. (fl)
Fi

II. Assertion-Reason Type Questions

46. ib) 47. ia) 48. id) 49. ib) 50. ia) SI. id) 52. id) S3, id)

HINTS/EXPLANATIONS For Difficult Questions

I. Multiple Choice Questions

2. We find that from x = 0 to x = 2, =—= 4 .
dx 2
1. In the Fig. I(Q).l shown, ,F12 and -F21 are the
dV
forces of attraction. Therefore, charges ^ j, ^2 niust As E = -
dx '
so, E is negative constant.
be of opposite sign, i.e., ^2 <
From X = 2 to 4, V= constant. Therefore, £ = 0
and so on. Choice id) is correct.
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/67

Stotal ” ^object
- A A
7 ">
4) = E-A = {cz} k)a~ ● k = cz a-
= 1-0 + 5 X 10'® (- 1-6 X 10-'^)
At, z = a
Gtotal =1-0 +(-0-8) = 0-20 c 4
4. As X is repelled by Y, therefore, charge on Y must ({) = ca^ = ca
be negative. As Z is attracted by Z must carry 11. In a non-uniform electric field, an electric dipole
no charge or positive charge. Choice (c) is will experience both, force and torque. Thus
correct. option (c) is true.
5. Here, total charge = Qi + Q2+ 12. According to Gauss’s theorem,
= 3 e + 5 e ~3 e = 5 e 2q 3q
N,= N^ =
As all the three spheres came in contact

oww
^0 ^0
simultaneously and got separated, the charge must
N
be conserved !
X

Ni 3q 3
i.e..
2i + 02 ^3 - 5 e
13. For Gauss’s Law, the electric field over the

ee
Now, 6e+6e-7e=5e
Gaussian surface remains continuous and uniform
As - 4 e + 3-5 e + 5'5 e = 5 e
at every point. Option (d) is true.

FFrlo
r
Thus, choice (b) and (c) are correcL 14. A body gets positively charged when it loses some

rF
6. From the knowledge of theory, electric potential electrons. It involves loss of mass. Choice (a) is

ee
at any point on the equatorial line of electric dipole correct.
is zero.
ouru —^ ^

rF
y ne 15. By definition, d^= E-dA
7. I =—
R t 16. As is clear from Fig. 1(Q).7, charge qdXB will be

ffosor
in equilibrium if net force at B is zero.
.'. n = l2^ = Y. L 200x1
os k
e ~R e 100xl-6x!0'*^ FIGURE 1(Q).7

= 1-25 X 10'^
ook
q Q q
Yo
Y
A B
8. Electric field lines always start from positive H- lx ■H
Bo

charge and end at negative charge. Therefore ♦1

reeB

K
option (d) is the correct choice.
9. Electric field due to a uniformly charged thin
oouY

q^q ^ Qq or
ur

spherical shell at a distance r is {1x9

ad

£ =
\ Q _ 2q 17. Let the resultant electric field due to the three
Y
d

47ceQ 47ieQr^ charges be zero at F, at a distance x from charge

-4^, Fig. 1(Q).8.
nidn

When charge becomes q and distance is r/2, then

Re

q Aq FIGURE 1(Q).a
r = = 2E
F
Fi

4JiGo(r/2)^ 47te,^0 16^ -Aq q

10. Herez = a [Refer to Fig. 1(Q).6] j = 0 x=L p

N- X
>l
FIGURE 1(Q).6

Z
kq.y\6 _ k{Aq)
a
{x + lS- ~
4
a = — or 4x=2x + 2L
x+ L X
x-L
♦Y
18. Here, p = 4 X 10"^ cm, £ = 10 ^ N/C
T = 2 X 10-® Nm, e = ?
As x=pE sin 0
2x 10-® = 4x 10*5 X 10“^ sine
1/68
7>>teieUep^ 4. Fundamental Ph}rsics‘ (XII) QVOL.i

sin0 = -
1
0 = 30®
34. When an electric dipole is held at an angle in a
2 uniform electric field, there will be equal and
19. Out of the given quantities, electric field is a vector. opposite forces on the positive and negative
charges of the dipole. Due to it, the resultant force
20. Electric field lines contract longitudinally because
on the dipole will be zero. But these forces will
of attraction between unlike diarges.
21. On a charged conducting sphere, charge resides form a torque to rotate the dipole to align in the
direction of electric field.
on the outer surface of the sphere.
4tc Fr^
22. Electric flux = M _5g-3e+26-4Q 35. Electric flux, (j> = -^ = 9

^0 ^0 Sq q^lAnFr^ q
= Zero
(A/Lr-2)xL2
23. This property of electric charge is due to Dimensions of <{> = = [ML^
AT
quantisation of charge.

ww
Q
24 . Surface integral of electric field = JscosO. 36. Electric flux over a closed surface, <|) = —
s ^0
SI unit of surface integral of electric field is where Q is the total charge enclosed by the closed

Flo
= (N/Q (m2) X 1 surface. Here Q = -q+3 q = 2q

ee
= Nm^C-^ (j) = 2^/eo

rere
25. According to Gauss’s theorem in electrostatics. 37. No. of electric lines of force radiating from a

r FF
closed surface in vacuum s electric flux linked
(|> = 4 E‘ds = — Q
with the closed surface, ({► = —= M3 x 10^*
^ ^0
uurr
26. q\ + qi~^ ^2 = - ^1
Le. the two charges are equal and unlike. They
foor G=M3x10“x€o^°
= M3 X lO^i X (8-85 X 10"^2) „iq
ks s
signify an electric dipole. 38. Here, ?, = 3 x KT^ C, qfj = 5 x 10^ C,
Yoo
oook

27. As, 1 C = 3 X 10^ stat coulomb r = 10 cm = 10"^ m

eBB

.’. 1 stat coulomb = —^^C

3x10^
= -xl0-*^C
3
F = -M2_ _9x10^x(3x1Q-^)x(5x10^)
47C€or2 (10-^)2
28. When a plastic comb is passed through dry hair,
rr

= 135 X lO^O N = 13-5 X 10“ N

ouu

the electrons pass from hair to comb. Due to it,

ad

39. Electric flux, ({> = F X

the comb acquire native charge.
YY

SI unit of electric flux = {NIQ x

29. The cause of quantization of electric charge is due
to transfer of integral number of electrons.
nndd

cxe
Re

40. Force F = F = F
30. Charge on a body = 200 x (- 1-6 x 10~^^) C r2 l2
= -3*2xlO-“C
Fii

1
31. Knowledge based question. 41. From the knowledge of theory, e OC — .

r
32. Field intensity at a point on the axial line of a
Therefore, choice (h) is correct
1 2p
short dipole at distance r, F^ = x-4- T.q 8Q-3Q + SQ-10Q
42. As, <|> = = Zero
4jC6 0 ^ ^0 ^0
Field intensity at a point on the equitorial line at 43. On charging a neutral balloon, its size increases
1 because of repulsive force between the charges
distance r, F^ = 4ice 0 r3
on die surface of balloon.

45. A cube has six faces. The total flux <|> = ^/€q is
divided equally among the six faces. Therefore,
—A = 2 or Fy| = 2 E£ through any one face of the cube,
1 _ g
33. Knowledge based question.
6^0
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/69

II. Assertion-Reason lype Questions

10-1X (0-6)2 = 4x10-12
46. The magnitude of charge on proton is same as
or ,2 = 9x10^
that on electron. Accordingto coulomb’s law
^ = 2 X 10-^ C = 2 nC
Thus Assertion is true. Here Reason is true but
p- . As ^] = ^2 “ ^
r2 can not explain the Assertion.
(for protons and electrons) 50. Given, + ^2 = 2 or <?2 = ((2 - 4)
F 1 4 ^2
protons K exelr^ Coulomb force, F =
= 1
4 It e r2
p
electrons
K exetr^ 0

Thus Assertion is true. Here Reason is also true 1 gj (6-^i)

but can not explain the Assertion. 471 € r2

ww
0
47. Here, Reason is true,

I 4^1 1 Q~(i\

FF loo
F_. = 40N ...(O
r2
47ceo6, r2 4tC€ 0
air

ee
1 dF
4^2 For F to be maximum, = 0

ee r
and .Fmed
r2 dq^

rFrF
47C8o€^
dF 1
rur
1
Ml _i [2-2.?,]=0
47te.^0 x8
X
r2 8 ffoordq^ 4jte
0
ks
or
e-2^l = 0 or Q = lq\ ●●● 2/91 = 2
1
YYoou
=5N Thus both Assertion and Reason are true and
ookos

8
Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
BBo

Thus Assertion is true and Reason is the correct 51. When a conducting medium is inserted between
explanation of Assertion. two charges then e ^. =««.
re

48. Every mass in the universe is governed by

1
gravitational force of attraction. Hence x^
oouur
ad

F =
gravitational force is dominating force but it is a 471 60^, r2
Y

weakest force as compared to other forces in

nature. So, both Assertion and Reason are false. 1
X^
dndY

= 0.
Re

1
4TC Xoo r2
49. F = 431.
FFini

47t€
0
r2 This both Assertion and Reason are false.
52. Both the Assertion and Reason are false.
(9xl0^)x.?x^ 53. In 1 C charge, number of electrons = 6-25 x lO’^.
or
(10x10-2x10) = The relation given in Reason q = is also false.
(0-6)2

Sol. Electrons are loosely bound to atoms and can be

I. Electric charge and its properties readily exchanged during rubbing. Protons are
1. The electric charge of any body is actually a firmly bound inside the nucleus. TTiey cannot be
easily detached. This is the reason why electric
surplus or deficit of electrons. Why not
charge of any body is just a surplus or deficit of
protons ? electrons.
1/70
4. Fundamental Physics (XII) PKiBi
2. A charge Q is kept in (Hi) When A and B are placed at a large distance,
the inner cavity and a the positive and negative charges on each flow
charge 2 Q is given to and neutralise, so that no charge is left on A or B.
the inner shell. A
4. (a) A comb run through one’s hair attracts
charge 3 Q is given to
small bits of paper. Why ? What happens if
the outermost shell, as
the hair are wet or if it is a rainy day ?
shown in Fig. 1(Q).9.
Find the charges at the (b) Ordinary rubber is an insulator. But the
surfaces A, B and C. special rubber tyres of aircrafts are made
slightly conducting. Why is this necessary ?
Sol. Due to induction, - Q charge is induced on the
inner surface A of inner shell and + Q charge is (c) Vehicles carrying inflammable materials
induced on the outer surface B of inner shell. Thus, usually have metallic ropes touching the
charge on surface A = - Q. ground during motion. Why ?

w
Now charge on surface B = 2 Q + Q = 3 Q (d) A bird perches on a bare high power line,
and nothing happens to the bird. A man
Due to induction, -3 Q charge is induced on the
standing on the ground touches the same line
inner surface of outer shell C and + 3 Q charge is

Flo
induced on the outer surface of outer shell C. and gets a fatal shock. Why ?
Thus, total charge on surface C=3Q + 3Q = 6Q. (NCERT Solved Example)

ee
3. A glass rod rubbed with silk is brought close Sol. (a) This is because the comb gets charged by

Fr
to two uncharged metallic spheres in contact friction. If the hair are wet, or if it is a rainy day,
with each other, inducing charges on them as friction between the hair and the comb reduces.
shown in Fig. l(Q).10(a). The comb does not get charged, and it will not

or
ur
Describe what happens when attract small bits of paper.
sf
(i) the spheres are slightly separated and {b) The special rubber tyres of air crafts are made
slightly conducting so that electricity generated
ok
(ii) the glass rod is subsequently removed and
Yo
finally on account of friction between the tyres and the
Bo

runway goes to earth,

(Hi) the spheres are separated far apart
Sol. A glass rod rubbed with silk acquires positive (c) When a vehicle moves, its body gets charged
re

charge. When this rod is brought close to two on account of friction due to air. The tyres also
uncharged metallic spheres A and B in contact, accumulate the charge on account of friction
ou
ad

negative charge is induced on the left side of between the tyres and the road. The metallic ropes
sphere A and an equal positive charge is induced from the vehicle touching the ground enable the
Y

on the right side of sphere B, Fig. 1(Q).10(a). accumulated charges to flow to earth. This would
otherwise be hazardous to the inflammable
nd

(/) When the spheres are slightly separated, the

Re

materials.
induced charges are shown in Fig. 1(Q).10(h).
Fi

{d) When a bird perches on single bare high power

line, nothing happens to him as no current flows
through his body because the circuit is not
complete. In case of a person standing on ground,
the circuit is completed with the ground through
his body. Current flows through his body resulting
in a fatal shock.

o o 5. An insulating rod carries some net charge, and

a copper sphere is neutral. The rod and the
sphere do not touch. Can there be force of
(ii) As the glass rod is removed subsequently and attraction/repulsion between the two?
separation is too small, the distribution of charges Sol. When the charged rod is brought near the neutral
on A and B remains the same as shown in Fig. sphere, the sphere gets oppositely charged by
KQ).\0(b). induction. Therefore, the sphere and the rod will
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/71

attract each other. However, force of repulsion 2. Both forces are proportional to product of
between the two is not possible. charges (or masses) of interacting particles.
3. Both are central forces.
6. Neutral metal objects, especially in industry,
4. Both are conservative forces.
are often coated with electrically charged paint
or powder particles. How do these particles II. Coulomb’s Law
stick on the metal objects?
Sol. The electrically charged paint/powder particles 9. If two objects repel one another, you know both
charge the neutral metal surface oppositely by the carry either positive charge or negative charge.
How would you determine whether these
process of induction. The particles stick on the
chaises are positive or negative?
metal objects on account of force of attraction
between unlike charges.
Sol, To determine the polarity of charge on the two

ooww
objects, we bring one of the objects near a
7. Figure l(Q).ll shows two protons (symbol p)
positively charged glass rod. If the object is
and one electron (symbol e) on a straight line repelled away from the rod, it must be positively
AB. What is the direction of net electrostatic
charged (as like charges repel). However, if the
force on the central proton? object is attracted towards the glass rod, it must

e
be negatively charged (as unlike charges attract).

ree
FIGURE 1(Q).11
B 10. Is coulomb’s law in electrostatics valid in all

rFl
Fre
situations ?

Sol. Coulomb’s law is not applicable in all situations.

rrF
It is appliable under the following conditions :
e
A
I. The electric charges must be at rest.
sffoo
ouur
Sol. In Fig. l(Q).ll, the central proton is repelled by 2. The electric charges must be point charges, i.e.,
oksk
the other proton, along BA ; and it is attracted by size of charges must be smaller than separation
between the charges.
Yo
electron again along BA. Therefore, net
oo

electrostatic force on central proton is along BA. 3. The separation between the charges must be
Y

greater than nuclear size (10“'^ m) because if

BB

8. Give some points of dissimilarity and similarity

distance is < 10~’^ m, strong nuclear forces
between electrostatic forces and gravitational
rre

dominate over the electrostatic forces.

forces.
ouu

III. Electric field

Sol. {a) Dissimilarity
Y
ad

1. Electrostatic forces are between two charges 11. A point charge + Qis placed in the vicinity of a
dY

and gravitational forces are between two conducting surface. Draw the electric field lines
masses.
between the surface and the charge.
innd
Re

2. Electrostatic forces may be attractive or [CBSE 2017 (C)]

repulsive. But gravitational forces are always
Fi

● Sol. The electric field lines are always normal to the

F

attractive. surface of a conductor, both while starting or

3. Electrostatic force between two protons is ending on the conductor. This is shown in Fig.
10^ times stronger than gravitational force I(Q).12.
between them.
FIGURE 1(Q).12
4. Electrostatic forces operate over distances
which are not large. Gravitational forces
operate over very large distances.
5. Electrostatic force depends on the medium
between the two charges. Gravitational force
does not depend upon the medium between
the two masses.

(b) Similarity Conductor

Surface
1. Both the forces obey inverse square law.
1/72 Pn<uU^p,'4. Fundamental Physics (XII)QSI93
12. Draw the pattern of electric field lines when a a potential difference V as shown in Fig.
point charge - g is kept near an uncharged 1(Q).14. The forces on the two protons are
conducting plate. (CBSE 2019) identical. Is this statement true ?
Sol. An explained in the above question, the pattern of
electric field lines will remain the same as shown in FIGURE 1(Q).14
Fig. 1(Q).12 except that all arrows showing the
●B
direction are reversed as the charge is negative.
13. Fig. 1(Q).13 shows the electric field lines for ●A

two point charges separated by a distance.

What are the signs of and q^t Can you Sol. True. This is because field between two parallel
determine the ratio q^lq^ plates is uniform (£), charge on each proton is
same {q). Therefore, force on each proton F-qE
is same.

ww
17. Fig. 1(Q).1S shows tracks of three charged
particles in a uniform electrostaticfield. Give
the signs of the three charges. Which particle

Floo
has the highest charge to mass ratio ?

ee
eer
rFrF
+ +
rur
Sol. As the electric field lines emanate from q^ and
some of them end at ^2- therefore q^ must be a
s ffoor o
osk
positive charge and ^2 must be a negative charge.
YYoou
(a) Suppose two particles have identical curved
oook

As the number of lines leaving q^ is twice the

number of field lines terminating on ^2* therefore, trajectories. Which of the following are
eBB

magnitude of q-^ must be twice the magnitude of necessarily true ?

^2, = (1) they have same charge (u), they have same
r

14. In defining electric field due to a point charge, mass {Hi) the charges have the same sign,
ouur
ad

the test charge has to be vanishingly small. (iv) they have the same ehn ratio.
Y

How this condition can be justified, when we (b) You are given the initial velocity f of a beam
know that charge less than that of electron or particle and the length of the capacitor /. What
nd dY
Re

a proton is not possible. other measurement would enable one to find

elm ?
Sol. This is true that charge less than electron or proton
FFini

is not possible but in macroscopic situations, Sol. The charge on particles 1 and 2 must be negative
source charge is much larger than charge on and charge on particle 3 must be positive. We shall
electron or proton, so the limit ^0 ^ show that charge to mass n tio {elm) is highest in
charge is justified. case of particle 3.
15. Can electric field lines of force form closed If we assume that the three charged particles have
loops ? Give reason for your answer. entered the electric field with the same velocity,
Sol. No. The direction of electric field is from positive then the deflection is proportional to e/m i.e.,
to negative charge. So line of force can be charge to mass ratio of the particle.
regarded starting from positive charge and ending As deflection of particle 3 is maximum, the {e/m)
on a negative charge. That is why, electric lines of this particle must be the highest.
of force can not form closed loops. {a) When two particles have identical curved
16. Two protons A and B are placed inbetween the trajectories, their charges must have the same sign
plates of a parallel plate capacitor charged to and the particles must have the same ehn ratio.
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/73

(b) If h is the vertical displacement of particle at Sol. Here, only the charge - 2 Q is enclosed by the
the end of capacitor plates as shown in Fig. sphere of radius 3 a so. By Gauss theorem
1(Q).16, then, from
-2Q
^E =
FIGURE 1(Q).16 ^0
+ + + +
20. (a) Define electric flux. Is it a scalar or a
vector ? A point charge ^ is at a distance dJ2
h directly above the centre of a square of side d,
as shown in Fig. 1(Q).17. Use Gauss’s Law to
M- ●N obtain the expression for the electric flux
through the square.

ww
1
s = ut +-ai^ FIGURE 1(Q).17
2
(i

Flo
I f eEY I
L(±]Ell

e
h=0 + -
2 m A^J J

ree
Fr
2v^h

rF
elm =
e-P
uurr d

As E, I and v are known, by measuring h, we can

calculate (e/m). for
(A) If the point charge is now moved to a
s
kks
The relation shows that for given E, I and v ; distance d from the centre of the square and
Yo
oooo

deflection (A) (e/m). This is what we have stated the side of the square is doubled, explain how
above. the electric flux will be affected.
eB

(CBSE 2018)
IV. Electric dipole
Sol. (a) Electric flux over an area in an electric field
18. A point charge placed at any point on the axis
r

is a measure of th* number of electric field lines

ou
ad

of an electric dipole at some large distance crossing this area. It is a scalar quantity.
YY

experiences a force F. What will be the force

According to Gauss’s theorem, electric flux
acting on the point charge when its distance passing through six faces of the cube is
nndd

from the dipole is doubled.

Re

Sol. As electric field on axial line varies as

^0
Fi

1 F 1 1
The given square is one face of the cube.
^“7
or — «>« — OC

Therefore, electric flux through the square is

So, when distance is doubled, force reduces to
F/8.
6 6e
0
V. Electric Flux and Gauss’s Theorem
(A) When point charge is moved to a distance d
19. Two charges of magnitude - 2 Q and + Q are from the centre of the square and the side of the
located at points (a, 0) and (4 a, 0) respectively. square is doubled there will be no change in
What is the electric flux due to charges through electric flux through the square. It will remain
a sphere of radius ’3 a’ with its centre at the
origin. (CBSE 2013) tlie same, /.e., <]) =
6e 0
1/74 TkeuCeefr'^ Fundamental Physics^ (XH) VOL.I

Q. 21. (a) A conductor A with a cavity as shown in 9 = 0, Le., chaige inside the cavity is zero.
Pig* 1(Q)*18 (a) is given a charge Q. Show Hence the entire charge Q on the conductor
that the entire charge must appear on the must appear on the outer surface of the
outer surface of the conductor, conductor.

(b) Another conductor B vnth chaise q is (b) The conductor B carrying a charge +q
inserted into the cavity keeping B insulated inserted in the cavity induces a charge - q on
from A. Show that the total charge on the the surface of cavity and +q on the outside
outside surface of A is (Q+q), DBIg. 1(Q).18 surface of the conductor A, Fig. 1(Q). 18(£>).
(*)]. As the outer surface of A originally had a chaige
(c) A sensitive instrument is to be shielded Q, the total chaige on it would become (Q+q).
from the strong electrostatic fields in its (c) To shield a sensitive instrument from strong
environment Surest a possible way. electrostatic fields, the instrument must be put

ww
in a metallic cover.

Q. 22. (a) Consider an arbitrary electrostatic field

configuration. A small test charge is placed

Flo
at a null point (i.e. where E = 0) of the

e
configuration. Show that the equilibrium of

reree
the test charge is necessarily unstable,

r FF
(b) Verify this result for the simple
configuration of two charges of the same
uurr
foor magnitude and sign placed a certain distance
apart.
ks s
Sol. (a) To prove this, suppose the equilibrium of
Yoo
ooook

test charge is stable. When the test chaige is

displaced from the null point in any direction,
eBB

it must experience a restoring force towards

the null point. This indicates that there is net
inward flux of electric field through a closed
rr
ouu
ad

surface around the null point. But, according

to Gauss’s law, the electric flux through a
YY

surface not enclosing any charge must be zero.

Hence the equilibrium cannot be stable.
nndd
Re

Sol. (a) We know, the net field inside a charged (b) The middle point of the line joining two
Fii

—>
like charges is a null point. When we displace
conductor is zero, i.e., E =0, inside. Let us a test charge slightly along the line, a restoring
choose a Gaussian surface lying wholly within force tends to bring the test charge back to the
the conductor and enclosing the cavity. Fig. centre. But when we displace the test charge
1(0). 18(a). According to Guass’s law. normal to the line, the net force on the test

sld:=^ = 0 charge takes it further away from the null point.

^ ^0 (v E = 0,inside) Hence the equilibrium cannot be stable.
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/75

it B^i ● Very Short Answer

ill
>... ● Short Answer
● Long Answer

VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS Carrying 1 mark

I. Electric charge and its properties (b) length (c) time (rf) charge (e) charge density
and (/) phase ?
1. What is the cause of charging ?
(Jharkhand Board 2011)
Ans. Mass, length, time and charge density depend
on state of rest or motion of a body. However,
Ans. The cause of charging is actual transfer of charge and phase are invariant.
electrons from one body to the other. 11. Is the force acting between two point charges
2. An isolated conducting sphere is given a and ^2 Itept at some distance in air,

w
positive charge. Does its mass increase, attractive or repulsive when :
decrease or remain the same ?
(0 > 0 (li) q^q2 < 0 (CBSE 2007, 2003)
Ans. Its mass decreases slightly as it loses some Ans. (/) When ^,^2 > 0, the force is repulsive,

FF llowo
electrons.
(/i) When < 0, the force is attractive.
3, What is meant by quantization of charge ?

ree
(Bihar Board 2011) II. Coulomb’s Law

Ans. Charge on any body or particle can be integral 12. Does Coulomb’s law of electric force obey

rF
multiple of charge on an electron (- e), i.e., Newton’s third law of motion ?
q = ± ne, where « = 1, 2, 3, Ans. Yes, it obeys. Forces exerted by two charges on
ur
4. What do you mean by conservation of electric eachother are always equal and opposite.
charge ?
Ans. Conservation of electric charge means that the
for Ffre o
13. Is the electric force between two electrons
greater than the gravitational force between
ks
total charge on an isolated system remains them ? If so, by what factor ?
YYour o
oo

unchanged with time. Ans. Yes, electric force between two electrons is
5. Is the total charge of the universe conserved ? greater than gravitational force between them by
a factor of
Ans. Yes, charge conservation is a global
Bo kBs

phenomenon. 14. Electrostatic forces are much stronger than

r ee

6. Name any two basic properties of electric gravitational forces. Give one example.
oour u

charge. Ans. A charged glass rod can lift a piece of paper

ad

(Bihar Board 2012)

Ans. (0 Quantization of charge («) Conservation of against the gravitational pull of earth on this
Y

charge. piece.
7. What is the value of charge on an electron ? 15. What is the dimensional formula for e q ?
nd
Re

Is a charge less than this value possible ? Ans. [M-* L-3 T^ A^].
(Manipur Board 2011) 16. Write down the value of absolute permittivity
FFind Y i

of free space. (Pb. Board 1996)

Ans. e = - 1-6 X 10“*^ C. No, charge less than this
value does not exist. Ans. Absolute permittivity of free space s 0 = 8-85 X
10-'2 C^N-^ m-2.
8. Give two points of distinction between charge
and mass. 17. What is the relevance of large value of K
(= 81) for water ? (Chhatisgarh Board 2011)
Ans. Charge can be positive, negative or zero. But
Ans. It makes water a great solvent. This is because
mass is a positive quantity. Further, electric
binding force of attraction between oppositely
charge is always conserved. But mass is not
charged ions of the substance in water Incomes
conserved as it can be changed into energy and 1/81 of the force between these ions in air.
vice-versa.
18. Force of attraction between two point charges
9. Can ever photons have a charge ? If not why ? placed at a distance d is F. What distance
Ans. No, photons can never have a charge. This is apart should they be kept in the same medium
because charge cannot exist without rest mass. so that force between them is F/3 ?
10. Which of the following quantities depends on (CBSE 2011)
state of rest or motion of a body ; (a) mass
Ans. As F« 1/r^ New distance = y/3r .
1/76 ‘P'uidee^ Fundamental Physics (XII)
19. In coulomb’s law, on what factors does the 28. Why is electric Held intensity inside a charged
value of electrostatic force constant K conductor zero ?
depend ? {Pb. Board 2011) Ans. This is because there are no electric lines of force
Ans. The value of K depends on nature of medium inside the body of a conductor.
separating the charges and on the system of units. 29. Two point charges of 3 ilC each are 100 cm
apart At what point on the line joining the
m. Superposition Principle charges will the electric intensity be zero ?
Ans. At the centre of the two charges.
20. When two charges and qi are kept at some
30. What is nature of symmetry of Held due to a
distance apart, force acting between these
point chaise ?
charges is F. If a third charge q^ is placed
Ans. The field due to point charge has spherical
quite close to ^2* will happen to the force
symmetry.
between q-^ and q^ ? 31. When is an electric line of force straight ?

ww
Ans. As force b7etween any two charges doesn’t Ans. Electric line of force is straight in the field of a
depend upon the presence of any other charge, single charge.
so force between F, and F2 will remain F only. 32. When is an electric line of force curved ?

Flo
21. Does the coulomb force that one charge exerts Ans. Electric line of force is curved in the field of

ee
on another, change if other charges are more than one point charges.
brought nearby ?

rere
V. Electric dipole

rFF
Ans. No, the coulomb force due to one charge on
another charge is not changed. 33. Define electric dipole moment. Write its SI
(Jharkhand Board 2011 ;
uur r
unit.
IV. Eletric field
foor Raj. Board 2011 ; CBSE 2011)
Ans. Electric dipole moment is equal to product of
ks s
22. A point charge q is placed at the origin. How
magnitude of either charge and distance between
Yoo
does the electric field due to the charge vary
ook

them. Its SI unit is C-m.

with distance r from the origin ?
BBo

Ans. Electric field varies inversely as square of 34. What is an ideal dipole ?
distance from the point charge. Ans. For a given dipole moment I p I ~q{2d),
re

23. Write the dimensional formula of electric when the charge q gets larger and larger, while
ouur

field. the separation (2 a) between two charges gets

ad

Ans. smaller and smaller, we obtain an ideal dipole.

YY

Thus, an ideal dipole has almost no size.

24. A proton is placed in a uniform electric field
35. In which orientation, a dipole placed in a
directed along the positive .r-axis. In which
nndd
Re

direction will it tend to move ? (CBSE 2011) uniform field is in (i) stable (n) unstable
equilibrium ? (CBSE 2010)
Fii

Ans. As proton is positively charged, it will tend to

move along + x axis, i.e., along the direction of Ans. If 0 is angle between p and E , then 6 = 0® for
electric field. stable equilibrium, 9 = 180® for unstable
25. Name any four vector fields. equilibrium.
Ans. Electric field, magnetic field, gravitational field 36. How does a torque affect the dipole in an
electric field ?
and flow field (of a liquid) are vector fields.
26. What is the use of the concept of electric field Ans. Torque tries to align the dipole along the field.
intensity ? 37. Which rule gives you the direction of torque ?
Ans. It enables us to find force on any charge in the Ans. The direction of torque is given by right hand
screw rule.
field as F = qE 38. What happens when an electric dipole is held
27. Name the physical quantity whose SI unit is in a non uniform electric field ?
NC-* ? (Pb. Board 2011) Ans. It experiences some net force and some net
Ans. Electric field intensity. torque.
 ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/77

39. At what points, dipole field intensity is 46. Fig. 1(Q).19 shows three point charges + 2g,
parallel to the line joining the charges ? - q and + 39. What is the electricflux due to
Ans. At any point on axial line or equatorial line of this configuration through the surface S ?
(CBSE 2010)
dipole.
40. When does an electric dipole placed in a non-
uniform electric fleld experience a zero torque
but non-zero force.

Ans. When the dipole is placed parallel to the non-

uniform electric field.

41. Will an electric dipole have translational

motion when placed in a non-uniform electric
2q-q q
field ? Give reason for your answer. Ans. =

w
Ans. Yes, in a non-uniform electric field, an electric ^0 ^0
dipole experiences unequal forces at its ends. 47. What is the relation between electric intensity
and electric flux ?
The two forces, add up to give a resultant force,

Flo
which gives a translatory motion to the dipole. Ans. The surface integral of electric field intensity

e
over a closed surface in free space (/.e., electric
VI. Electric Flux and Gauss’s Theorem

ree
flux) is 1/€q times the total charge q enclosed

FFr
42. Name the principle which is mathematical
by the surface, i.e., o [Link] = q! .€ 0
equivalent of coulomb’s law and super
urr
position principle. 48. What is the number of electric lines of force
Ans. Gauss’s theorem of electrostatics.
43. If the radius of the Gaussian surface enclosing for
that radiate outwards from one coulomb of
charge in vacuum ?
kkss
a charge q is halved, how does the electric flux Ans. From ({) = —, when ^ = I C,
Yo
through the Gaussian surface change ?
ooo

^0
(CBSE 2008)
1
B

= 1-13x10^*
q 8-85x10"*2
Ans. As (|) = —, so flux does not depend upon the
re

^0 49. What is the SI unit of surface integral of

radius of Gaussian surface, it will remain electric field ?
ou
ad

unchanged. Ans. N C~^ or volt-metre, as the surface integral

YY

44. A charge q is placed at the centre of a cube of of electric field represents electric flux.
side I what is the electric flux passing through 50. An electric dipole of dipole moment 20 x
ndd

two opposite faces of the cube ? (CBSE 2012) 10"^ C /«is enclosed by a closed surface. What
Re

is the net electric flux coming out of the

Fi

surface ?
Ans. Flux through each face = —
6e 0 Ans. Net electric flux coming out of closed surface is
zero, because net charge on electric dipole is
.-. flux thorugh two opposite faces zero.

a. ^ 9 51. Two plane sheets of charge densities -i- a and

6e
0
6e
0
6e 3e - a are kept in air as shown in Fig. 1(Q).20.
0 0
What are the electric fleld intensities at points
45. Two concentric spherical shells of radii R and A and B ? (Kerala Board 2012)
2 R are given charges gj and Q2 respectively. FIGURE 1(Q).20
The surface charge densities of the outer ● A
surfaces are equal. Determine the ratio +0

(CBSE 2013)
● B
-<J

Qi _ 4nR^a
Ans. Here. = 1:4
47t(2/?)2c Ans. At A, £ = 0, and At B, E-—
^2
^0
1/78 Fundamental Physics (XII)B&!9]

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS Carrying 2 marks

I. Electric charge and its properties 5. An attractive force of 5 TV is acting between

two charges of + 2 p. C and -2]iC placed at
1. A copper sphere of mass 2 g contains nearly some distance. If the charges are mutually
2 X 10^ atoms. The charge on the nucleus of touched and placed again at the same
each atom is 29 e. What fraction of the
distance, what will be the new force, between
electrons must be removed from the sphere them ?
to give it a charge of + 2 p C ? Ans. On touching, charges neutralise. Therefore,
Ans. Total number of electrons in the sphere F = 0
= 29x2x1022
6. Two point charges of + 2 p C and + 6 p. C

ooww
No. of electrons removed
repel each other with a force of 12 N. If each
is given an additional charge of - 4 p C, what
q 2xl0~^ = 1-25x10*2 will be the new force ?
~ e~ 1-6x10-'^
Ans. ^, = + 2 p C, ^2 ” ^ ^ ^

ee
Fraction of electrons removed
g,' = + 2- 4 = -2pC;i?2' = + 6- 4 = 2pC,
F' = ?
1-25x10*2

r
rFFl
ree
= 2-16 x

F
29x2x1022 F'^ (g,)(<?2> _ (-2) (2) _ 1
F “ ^,^2 (2) (6) 3

rF
2. Give four properties of electric charges.
Ans. (/) Like charges repel and unlike charges attract -F _ -12
F' =

fsfoor
= - 4 iV (attractive)
ouur
each other,
3 " 3
(i/) Charge is quantized. 7. What is the importance of expressing
kosk
(Hi) Charge is conserved, coulomb’s law in vector form ?
(iv) Charge on a body is not affected by its motion.
Yo
A A
oo

Ans. As in vector form

Y

II. Coulomb's Law

BB

It shows two charges exert equal and opposite

3. Dielectric constant of a medium is unity. What forces on each other. So Newton’s third law is
rre

will be its permittivity ? obeyed.

Ans. We know that dielectric constant of a medium is
ouu
Y

As Coulombian force acts along and F21

ad

i.e., along the line joining the centres of two

dY

0
charges, so they are central forces.
G =/:€()= 1 X 8-854 X 10-*2
innd

= S-854 X 10"*2 C2 N-* m-2 111. Superposition Principle

Re

4. Two small balls having equal positive charge 8. Two identical metallic spheres A and B, each
FFi

q coulomb are suspended by two insulating carrying a charge q repel each other with a
strings of equal length I metre from a hook force F. A third metallic unchargedsphere C
fixed to a stand. The whole set up is taken in of the same size is made to touch the spheres
a satellite into space where there is no gravity. A and B alternately and then removed away.
What is the angle between the two strings and What is the force of repulsion between A and
the tension in each string ? B ?
Ans. In a satellite, there is condition of weightlessness. Ans. Let r be the distance between two spheres A and
Therefore, mg - 0. On account of electrostatic B. Then force of repulsion between spheres A
force of repulsion between the balls, the strings and B is
would become horizontal. Therefore, angle 1 gxg
F =
between the strings = 180®. 47t6 r2 -(1)
0
Also, tension in each string = force of repulsion
When uncharged sphere C of same size is placed
1
T = in contact with sphere A, Fig. l((2).21(a), each
2^ sphere acquires a charge
4kGq (21)
 1/79
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS

FIGURE 1(Q).21
V. Electric dipole
Charge = 0 gl2 ql2 12. What does (^, + 92) = ® signify ?
® * © * @© © Ans. + ^2 = ^1 = “ ^2- Such a system of point
charges is called an electric dipole. It is a pair of
q ql2 3^/4 ZqlA equal and opposite point charges separated by a
small distance.
13. An electric dipole is placed at rest in a uniform
ql2 ZqlA electric field, and released. How will it move ?
0 ©=B O Ans. A torque will develop and align the electric
A
dipole in the direction of the electric field, if the
dipole is not aligned already. The dipole shall
^+0 _ q not move as net force on the dipole is zero.
2 2 14. Define the term electric dipole momenL Is it

w
When the sphere C is placed in contact with scalar or vector ?
sphere S, Fig. l(Q).21(h), the charge is Ans. Electric dipole moment (p) is the product of
redistributed equally between B and C. Thus, either charge (± q) and the distance (2 a) between

Flo
charge on B or C is the charges, i.e.,p = q (2 a). It is a vector quantity,
1 <? 3^ directed from - ^ to + ^.

ee
- ^+- 15. What is the direction of field intensity at a
2 2 4

Fr
point (i) on axial line of dipole and (u) on
Refer to Fig. l(Q).21(c), Net force of repulsion equatorial line of dipole ?
between spheres A and B is Ans. For a point on the axial line of dipole, the

for
ur
1 (^/2)(3^/4) 3 ^ direction of electric field intensity £ is along a
F' = ;; = — r
4 Tie
0
8 line parallel to the axis of dipole directed along
ks
—»
Yo
the direction of dipole moment P ■
rV. Electric field
oo

For a point on the equatorial line of dipole,

9. Why no two electric lines of force can
—>
B

the direction of electric field £ is along a line

intersect each other ? (Hr. Board 2007)
parallel to the axis of dipole directed opposite
re

Ans. This is because at the point of intersection, we —»

can draw two tangents to the two lines of force. to the direction of dipole moment P ■
ou
ad

This would mean two directions of electric field 16. What is the nature of symmetry of the electric
intensity at the point of intersection, which is field due to (/) point charge and {ii) electric
Y

not possible. dipole ?

10. Give two properties of electric field lines. Ans. The electric field due to a point charge has
nd
Re

Ans. 1. Electric field lines are continuous curves. They spherical symmetry with point charge at the
start from a positively charged body and end at centre. It is so because, at equal distances from
Fi

a negatively charged body. They are continuous the point charge, field intensity is equal.
but do not form closed loops as there are no lines The electric field due to a dipole has a
of force inside the charged body. cylindrical symmetry. The axis of the cylinder
2. Tangent to the electric field line at any point passes through the dipole axis. It is so because,
gives the direction of electric field intensity at the electric field due to dipole will be same at
that point. every point on the surface of a right circular
11. A charged particle is free to move in an cylinder with electric dipole as the axis.
electric field. Will it always move along an 17. When an electric dipole is suspended in a
electric line of force ? uniform electric field, then under what con
Ans. If charged particle was initially at rest, it will ditions the dipole is in (z) stable equilibrium
and (ii) unstable equilibrium.
move along the direction of electric field. If
initial velocity of the charged particle makes a Ans. The dipole in an electric field will be in stable
certain angle with electric field, then the charged equilibrium if the following conditions are
satisfied :
particle will not move along the line of force.
1/80
Fundamental Physics (XII) VOL.I

(/) 'fhe resultant force on dipole is zero, i.e., there Ans. Electric flux over an area in an electric field
is no translatory motion of dipole. («) The torque represents the total number of electric lines of
on dipole is zero, i.e., there is no rotatory motion force crossing this area. SI units of electric flux
of dipole. (Hi) The potential energy of dipole is are N m^ C"^
minimum.

It will be so when dipole is aligned along the When R is reduced to half, electric flux through
direction of electric field. the surface remains the same. This is because
The dipole will be in unstable equilibrium if electric flux through the surface depends only
(0 the resultant force on dipole is zero, (ii) the on charge enclosed.
torque on the dipole is zero. (Hi) the potential 23. Draw a graph to show the variation of electric
energy of dipole is maximum. intensity E with perpendicular distance r from
It will be so when dipole is aligned opposite to an infinite line of charge density X C/m. Find
the direction of electric field.
work done in bringing a charge q from
18. Show that when an electric dipole is placed

ww
perpendicular distance rj to T2 (r2 > rj).
in a uniform electric field E , potential energy (CBSE 2018)
£/is given by U =-^-E. Ans. As is known, electric intensity E at a

Flo
Ans. Refer to Art. 1.36. perpendicular distance r from an infinite line of
19. An electric dipole is held at an angle 6 in a charge density X C/m is

ee
uniform electric field £. Will there be any

rere
X
(/) net translating force («) torque acting on £ =

r FF
it ? Explain. 27ceQ r
Ans. (0 There will be no net translating force. The variation of E with r is as shown in Fig.
uurr
(ii) Torque on the diple ,● x= pE sin 6. It will
foor
align the dipole along the field. Once the dipole
is aligned, x = 0. For details, refer to Art. 1.35.
1(Q).22. Work done in bringing charge q from
distance rj to T2 is
ks s
20. Charge is inside the Gaussian surface ;
Yoo
ooook

charge ^2 just outside the surface. Does the

electric flux through the surface depend on
eBB

qj ? Does it depend on q2 ? Explain.

Ans. Electric flux through the surface depends on
(as q^ is inside the Gaussian surface). But it does
rr
ouu

not depend on ^2- H being outside Gaussian

ad

surface. ^2 does not contribute to electric flux.

YY

21. Using Gauss’s law, derive an expression for

the electric field intensity at any point near a X
dW~[Link] = qEdr = q dr
nndd

uniformly charged thin wire of charge/length

Re

2tc€o r
= X C/m. (CBSE 2008)
^2
Fii

Ans. Refer to Art. 1.35. Xq

W = dr
22. Define electric flux. Write its SI unit. A charge 27C€«r
0
q is enclosed by a spherical surface of radius
R. If the radius is reduced to half, how would
Xq Xq I
the electric flux through the surface W =
[logr]Jn = log
change ? 2ne 0
(CBSE 2009, 2018 (C) ] 0 1

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS Carrying 3 marks

1. What do you understand by (a) quantisation of 3. Define SI unit of charge, electromagnetic unit
charge and (b) conservation of charge. Explain of charge and electrostatic unit of charge. State
each with illustrations.
the relation between them. [Art 1.14]
{HP Board 2013) [Arts. 1.8 and 1.10]
4. What is meant by Dielectric constant and
2. Explain Coulomb’s law in vector form and discuss
absolute electrical permittivity of medium. How
the importance of this study. [Art. 1.13]
 1/81
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS

are they related ? State SI units of dielectric 8. Give two properties of electric lines of force.
constant and absolute electrical permittivity. Sketch them for an isolated positive point charge
[ArL 1.15] and an electric dipole.
5. Explain super position principle. Apply it to (Kerala B4)ard 2012) [Art. 1.26]
obtain total force on a point charge due to n 9. State and prove Gauss’s law in electrostatics.
discrete charges. [Art. 1.16] (Bihar Board 2012, Jharkhand Board 2011,
6. Establish relation between electric field strength J & K Board 2011)
and force. [Art 1.20] [Art 1.39]
7. Explain what is meant by an electric line of 10. Slate Gauss’s Theorem in electrostatics and
force ? Give its two important properties ? deduce coulomb’s law from Gauss’s theorem.
(Raj. Board 2011)
(Pb. Board 2011) [Art 1.41]
[Arts. 1.26 & 1.27]

w
LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS Carrying 5 or more marks ’

1. How will you show that there are two kinds of 7. Derive an expression for force and torque acting

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charges ? Explain with proper illustrations. on an electric dipole in a uniform two dimensio
nal electric field. In which situation, torque on

reeee
[Art 1.3]
the dipole is (i) maximum and (/i) minimum.
2. What do you understand by the phenomenon of (CBSE 2017, HI* Board 2013. WB Board 2012)

FFr
charging by induction. Give some illustrations [Art 135]
to support your answer. [Art. 1.7]
8. Derive an expression for potential energy of an
3. What is meant by continuous charge
for
electric dipole in a uniform electric field. In
ur
distribution ? Apply superposition principle to which situation, the potential energy of dipole
obtain total force on a point charge due to is (0 maximum and (t’l) minimum ?
kkss
(0 continuous line distribution of charge (Raj. Board 2011) [Art 136]
Yo
oo

(ii) continuous surface distribution of charge and 9. Using Gauss’s theorem, derive an expression
(ill) continuous volume distribution of charge. for electric field intensity at a point due to
eB

(0 a line of charge, [Art. 1.42]

[Art. 1.17 & 1.18]
(/i) a uniformly charged thin spherical shell.
4. Derive an expression for electric field intensity
r

(CBSE 2011, 2013, CBSE (F) 2017,

ou

at a point due to
ad

Jharkhand Board 2012, Kerala Board 2012.

(i) A point charge [Art. 1.21] Manipur Board 2011, Pb. Board 2011)
YY

(ii) A group of charges [Art. 1.22] [Art 1.43]

(ill) Continuous charge distribution {Hi) a charged solid sphere.
ndd
Re

[Art 1. 23] (Chhatisgarh Board 2011) [Art. 1.44]

Fi

5. Derive general expression for rectangular (iV) an infinite plane sheet of charge.
components of electric intensity due to point (CBSE 2017, 2016. Uttarakhand Board 2012,
charge in space. [Art 1. 24] Manipur Board 2012. Raj. Board 2011)
[Art. 1.45]
6. Derive an expression for dipole field intensity
at any point on (0 axial line of dipole (v) two parallel sheets of charge with charge
densities, o and - o.
(CBSE 2017, Raj. Board 2012) [Art 1. 31]
(CBSE 2017, 2009) [Art. 1.46]
(li) equatorial line of dipole 10. State Gauss’s Law. Using this law, obtain the
(CBSE 2019, 2013, MP Board 2011) expression for the electric field due to an
[Art 1. 32] infinitely long straight conductor of linear
(ill) at any point [Art 1.33] charge density X. [CBSE Sample Paper
2019-20, CBSE 2018, 2017 (C)]
(iv) axis of uniformly charged irng
[Arts. 1.39 and 1.42]
[Art 1.34]
 1/82
Fundamental Physics (XII) VOL.I

CASE 1. The vast amount of charge in an object Read the above passage carefully and answer
is usually hidden as the object contains equal amounts the following very short answer and short
of positive charge and negative charge. When a glass answer questions.
rod is rubbed with a piece of silk, some electrons from
5. A cube of side of 0-1 m encloses charges of 3 pC
glass are transferred to silk piece. Therefore, glass rod and - 5 pC. What is electric flux from any one
acquires positive charge and silk piece acquires an equal face of the cube ?
negative charge. The charge acquired by a body is an 6. In the above question, a charge of + 2 pC is held
integral multiple of basic unit of charge of an electron/ outside the cube. What is the electric flux from
proton represented by (e), i.e., q = ne. This property is any one surface of the cube ?
called quantisation of charge. Further, total charge on 7. Point charges of 1 pC, 2 pC, 3 pC and 4 pC are

ww
an isolated system always remains constant or held outside a conducting sphere and another
conserved. This property is called conservation of
charge of 10 pC is held inside the sphere. What
charge. We can compare the role of charge to the role is the total electric flux from the sphere ?
of mass in gravitation.

Flo
8. Algebraic sum of point charges present inside a
Read the above paragraph carefully and hollow sphere is zero. A point charge of- 10 pC

e
ree
answer the following very short and short is now held outside the hollow sphere. The total
[Link] questions : electric flux from the sphere will be.

Fr
rF
1. Which of the following is not an insulator ? glass,
CASE 3. From the knowledge of electric intensity
uurr
ebonite, paper and copper ?
2. How is the vast amount of charge in every object
hidden ?
for
(£) at any point ( r ), we can calculate the magnitude
and direction of force experienced by any charge
s
held at that point
kks
3. What are the two basic properties of electric
Yo
charge ?
oooo

4. What is the charge acquired by a body from which f {7) = q^E{7)

eB

one million electrons have been removed ? This is the physical significance of electric field.
As against the electric lines of force which are
CASE 2. According to Gauss’s theorem in
continuous but not closed loops, magnetic lines of force
r

electrostatics, total normal electric flux over a closed

ou

are continuous, endless closed loops.

ad

surface S in vacuum is l/Sg times the total charge Q

YY

contained inside 5, i.e.. An electric dipole consists of a pair of equal and

opposite point charges separated by some small
nndd

-* ->
Q distance. The dipole moment (p) is a measure of
Re

E-ds = —
s ^0
strength of electric dipole ~p =q{l7). The direction
Fi

The charges enclosed may be point charges or

even continuous charge distributions. Further, location of (p) is from negative charge to positive charge. On
of Q inside the closed surface does not affect the electric axial line of electric dipole
flux.
I p \2r
An imaginary closed surface at every point of l£l =

which electric intensity is same is called Gaussian 47C6Q(r2-a2):

surface. It may be an empty space or it may be
embedded in a solid body. The direction of E is opposite to direction of
If the medium surrounding the charges has a p . On equatorial line of electric dipole,
dielectric constant K, then

Q 1 £1 = I p I
Ke 0 4KEQ(r^
ELECTROSTATIC CHARGES AND FIELDS 1/83

Read the above passage carefully and answer

-*

11. Electric field £ on axial line of electric dipole

the following very short and short questions. -»

9. A charge is held in an electric field of intensity is £ oc r . What is the value of n ?

£ . What is the force on the charge ? 12. Give the magnitude and direction of electric
intensity due to an electric dipole at any point on
10. The algebraic sum of charges on an electric dipole
equatorial line of electric dipole.
is zero. Why does it have an electric field ?

ANSWERS

1. Copper is not an insulator. 7. As charges outside the sphere do not affect the
electric flux, therefore.
2. The vast amount of charge in an object is usually
hidden as the object contains equal amounts of q _ lOxlQ-^ _ 10"^

w
positive charge and negative charge. The object Yr -
^ e0 ^0 ^0
is said to be electrically neutral, i.e., it contains
no charge. 8. As algebraic sum of charges inside a hollow

Flo
sphere is zero, = 0. Further, presence of a
3. Two basic properties of electric charge are : charge of- 10 pC outside the hollow sphere does

eeee
(/■) Quantisation of charge not affect the electric flux through the sphere.
(j7) Conservation of charge. Therefore, = 0.

Fr
4. Q=ne=\0^x 1-6 x 10^*® C = 1-6 x 10"*^ C
9. £ = ^,£
As electrons have been removed, charge on the

for
ur
body is positive.
10. The electric dipole has an electric field because
charges of the dipole do not lie at the same point.
5. A cube has six faces. According to Gauss’s
11. Electric field on axial line of electric dipole is
ks
theorem in electrostatics, from one face of the
Yo
cube. ■ . Therefore, n = - 3.
proportional to
oo

^^__l^(3-5)pC
B

'£ -
6 s.,0 6
12. On equatorial line of electric dipole,
^0
re

p
l£l =
-2x10*^ 1x10-^
47l£o(r2+a2)3^2
ou
ad

6€
0
3i 0
£ is in a direction opposite to the direction of
Y

6. Any charge present outside the cube does not

affect the electric flux from the cube. P ■
nd
Re

CASE-BASED MCQs AND ASSERTION-REASON QUESTIONS

Fi

CASE 1. According to Coulomb’s law, the force Sq is called absolute electric permittivity of free
of interaction between any two point charges is directly space.

proportional to the product of charges and inversely Based on the above paragraph, answer
proportional to the square of distance between them. questions no. 1 to 4 :
The force acts always along the line joining the two
1. Units of Eq are
charges.
(a) Nm-2
11^2 > (b) C-2 Nm2
-2
(c) N-* m
Here, k is electrostatic force constant.
(d) Nm-
In CGS system, = 1. In SI, = 9 x 10^ Nm^
2. Value of absolute electrical permittivity of free
1
k = , where space is
4ne
0
 1/84
Fundamental Physics (XII) VOL.I

(a) 8-85 X 10-^2 q2^-i ^-2

(6) 8-85 X 10^2 q2 j^-i ^-2 dipole moment is p = ^(2a). Directionof p is from
(c) 9 X 10^ C2 N-' m-2 negative charge to positive charge, p is measured in
(cO 9 X 10-9 C2 j^-l j^-2 Coulomb-meter.
For Question No. 3 and 4, we have given two Based on the above paragraph, answer
statements each, one labelled as Assertion (A) questions no. 5 to 8 :
and other labelled as Reason (R).
5. Can two electric lines of force intersect each
Choose the correct option out of the four options other ?
given below:
(a) No, never (b) Yes, always
(a) Both A and R are true and R is correct
(c) sometimes (d) cannot predict
explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true and R is not the correct 6. Dipole moment p is equal to

ww
explanation of A.
(a) q (2 a) ib) q/2 a
(c) A is true but R is false.

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(d) A is false and R is also false. 2a
(c) (d) none of these
3. Assertion. The value of electrostatic force

ee
constant depends on nature of medium separating
the charges and also on the system of units. For Question No. 7 and 8, we have given two

reer
statements each, one labelled as Assertion (A)

rFF
Reason. In SI, = 9 x 10^ Nm^ C"2. In CGS
and other labelled as Reason (R).
system k~l.
Choose the correct option out of the four options
uur r
4. Assertion. Coulomb’s law corresponds to
Newton’s law of gravitation. ffoor
given below:
(a) Both A and R are true and R is correct
sks
Reason. According to Newton’s law of
explanation of A.
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gravitation
ooko

(b) Both A and R are true but R is not a correct

explanation of A.
eBB

r2 (c) A is true, but R is false.

The symbols have standard meanings. (d) A is false and R is also false.
r

7. Assertion. Electric dipole moment is a scalar.

ouur

CASE 2. An electric line of force is a path, straight

ad

or curved, such that tangent to the path at any point

Y

gives us electric field intensity at that point. No two Reason. p = q(2a).

electric lines of force can intersect each other.
dY

8. Assertion. No two electric lines of force can

Re

Two equal and opposite charges separated by a intersect each other.

nnd

small distance are said to form an electric dipole. Its Reason. Because they lie far apart.
FFii

ANSWERS

l.(c) 2. (a) 3. (a) 4. (a) 5. (a) 6. (a) 7. (d) 8. (c)

HINTS/EXPLANATIONS For Difficult Questions

1. From F = 3. Both, the Assertion and Reason are true, and

4tc6«0 r2 Reason is correct explanation of the Assertion.
4. Both, the assertion and Reason are true and
C2 Reason is correct explanation of the Assertion.
^2
^0 =
4tu Fr^ Nm^ 7. As p = 9 X (2 a ). Hence Reason is false. Here
2a
= C2 N-^ m-2. is also a vector, therefore Electric dipole
moment is a vector. Thus Assertion is also false,
2. 6(j = 8-85x 10-‘2c2n-‘ m"2 8. Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.