Which of the following statements are true?

(A) The potential energy for a system of two negative point charges is negative
(B) Electrostatic force is a conservative force
(C) Negative potential energy between two charges implies that the force between them is repulsive
(D) Electrostatic potential energy is a scalar quantity

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(B) and (D) only

The correct answer is Option (1) → (B) and (D) only

Analysis:

(A) The potential energy for two negative charges is negative. False: For two like charges (both negative or both positive), the potential energy is positive since the force is repulsive and work must be done to bring them closer.

(B) Electrostatic force is a conservative force- True: Electrostatic force is conservative because the work done is path-independent and depends only on the initial and final positions.

(C) Negative potential energy implies repulsive force. False: Negative potential energy implies the force is attractive, not repulsive.

(D) Electrostatic potential energy is a scalar quantity. True: Electrostatic potential energy is a scalar quantity, as it has magnitude but no direction.

Correct statements: (B) and (D)