The electric potential for an electric dipole |
varies inversely with the distance from the center of the dipole on the equatorial line. is a vector quantity is zero at mid-point on the line, joining two charges of dipole has a direction from charge -q towards +q |
is zero at mid-point on the line, joining two charges of dipole |
The correct answer is Option (3) → is zero at mid-point on the line, joining two charges of dipole Explanation: For an electric dipole having charges +q and −q separated by distance 2a, the potential at a point on its axial or equatorial line is given by: $ V = \frac{1}{4\pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{p \cos\theta}{r^2} $ where $ p = q(2a) $ is the dipole moment. • The potential due to a dipole varies inversely as $ r^2 $, not $ r $. Hence, the first statement is incorrect. • Electric potential is a scalar quantity. Hence, the second statement is incorrect. • On the equatorial line (mid-point between charges), potentials due to +q and −q are equal and opposite. Therefore, the net potential is zero. Hence, the third statement is correct. • The direction of dipole moment and hence the direction of potential is from −q to +q. Hence, the fourth statement is correct. Correct statements: (C) and (D) |