Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Physics

Chapter

Electric Charges and Fields

Question:

Which of the following statements is correct for an electric dipole placed along the direction of a non-uniform electric field?

Options:

$F_{net}=0;τ_{net}=0$

$F_{net}≠0;τ_{net}=0$

$F_{net}≠0;τ_{net}≠0$

$F_{net}=0;τ_{net}≠0$

Correct Answer:

$F_{net}≠0;τ_{net}=0$

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (2) → $F_{net}≠0;τ_{net}=0$

In a non-uniform electric field:

• The two charges of the dipole experience unequal forces because the field strength differs slightly at their positions.

• Hence, a net force acts on the dipole ($F_{net} \neq 0$).

• If the dipole is aligned along the field direction, the forces on the two charges act along the same line, producing no torque ($\tau_{net} = 0$).

Final Answer:

$F_{net} \neq 0; \, \tau_{net} = 0$