Which of the following statements is correct for an electric dipole placed along the direction of a non-uniform electric field?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
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:
$F_{net} \neq 0; \, \tau_{net} = 0$