Which of the following is true for an electric dipole placed in the e…

The correct answer is Option (2) → The torque on the dipole due to the electric field may be zero

The field of a point charge is non-uniform and radial. Its magnitude falls with distance from the charge. Its direction is always along the line through the charge.

Option (1) The net electric force on the dipole may be zero — Incorrect. The two charges of the dipole sit at different points of a non-uniform field. So the forces on \( +q \) and \( -q \) are never equal and opposite. There is always a net force on the dipole.

Option (2) The torque on the dipole due to the electric field may be zero — Correct. Let the dipole lie along the line joining it to the point charge. Then \( \vec{p} \) is parallel or antiparallel to \( \vec{E} \), and the torque \( \vec{\tau}=\vec{p}\times\vec{E} \) is zero. A net force still acts on the dipole.

NCERT (2026-27):
Dipole in a Uniform External Field – “… In addition there will, in general, be a torque on the system as before. The general case is involved, so let us consider the simpler situations when p is parallel to E or antiparallel to E. In either case, the net torque is zero, but there is a net force on the dipole if E is not uniform.”