Chapter 2

Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance

Solutions

SECTION - A
School/Board Exam. Type Questions
Very Short Answer Type Questions :
1. What are linear isotropic dielectrics?
Sol. In an external electric field, the positive and negative charges of a non- polar molecule are displaced in opposite
directions. The displacement stops when the external force on the constituent charges of the molecule is
balanced by the restoring force (due to internal fields in the molecule). The non-polar molecule thus develops
an induced dipole moment. The dielectric is said to be polarized by the external field. We consider only the
simple situation when the induced dipole moment is in the direction of the field and is proportional to the field
strength. (Substances for which this assumption is true are called linear isotropic dielectrics.)

2. Define dielectric strength.

Sol. The maximum electric field that a dielectric medium can withstand without breaking down of its insulating
property is called its dielectric strength.

3. What is the fringing effect of an electric field?

Sol. Electric field in the space between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor is non-uniform at the ends and the
field lines are curved. This is known as fringing effect.

4. Write the relation between electric susceptibility and dielectric constant.

Sol. In either case, whether polar or non-polar, a dielectric develops a net dipole moment in the presence of an
external field. The dipole moment per unit volume is called polarization and is denoted by P. For linear
isotropic dielectrics,
P = χe E
Here χe is a constant, characteristic of the dielectric and is known as the electric susceptibility of the dielelctric
medium.

5. A charge q is moving along a straight line perpendicular to the bisector of an electric dipole, then what is the
work done by charge against electric field?
Sol. Zero

6. When we move along the direction of electric field, then does electrostatic potential increases, decreases or
remains same?
Sol. Decreases

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28 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

7. Write the dimensional formula for polarisation.

Sol. [M 0 L –2 T 1 A 1 ]

8. What is the electrostatic potential due to a charge q at its own location?

Sol. Infinite

9. Draw a graph between electrostatics potential and distance for a point charge Q.

Sol. ∵ V = K Q
r
V

10. Does the kinetic energy of a small positive charge increase or decrease in going from A to B?

–
A B

Sol. Increases

Short Answer Type Questions :

11. Derive an expression for electrostatic potential at any point due to a point charge.
Sol. Consider a point charge q placed at point O. Consider any point P in the field of the above charge. Let us
calculate the potential at point P due to the charge q kept at point O.

P E
r
q
O
By definition, potential at P is equal to work done against electric field in moving a unit positive charge from
a large distance (∞) to point P. For that matter, a force equal and opposite to the force exerted by electric
field is to be applied on the unit positive charge.
  
∴ Fext = – ( +1C ) E = – E .

For small displacement dr ,work done is
   
dw = F ⋅ dr = – E . dr
   
Now E is radially outward. Taking dr to be radially outward, the angle between E and dr becomes 0°,
q
So, dw = – E dr = – dr
4πε 0 r 2
r
q
Now w = ∫ dw = – ∫ 2
dr
∞ 4 πε 0r

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 29

q ⎡ 1⎤
r
q ⎛ x n +1 ⎞
∫
n
⇒ w= – ⇒ w= ∵ x dx =
4πε 0 ⎢– r ⎥ 4πε 0 r
⎜⎝ n + 1⎟⎠
⎣ ⎦∞
by defination is the potential at P due to the charge q

q Kq 1
V = or V = , where K =
4πε 0 r r 4 πε 0

12. Two charges +3 μC and –4 μC are placed 14 cm apart. Find the point on the line joining the two charges where
electric potential is zero. (Taking zero potential at infinity).
Sol. Case 1:
Let at point A, potential is zero
+3 μ C A –4 μ C
(
K 3 × 10 –6 ) – K ( 4 × 10 ) = 0
–6

⎛ x ⎞ ⎛ 14 – x ⎞ x 14 – x
⎜⎝ ⎟ ⎜⎝ ⎟
100 ⎠ 100 ⎠ d = 14 cm
3 4
= ⇒ x = 6 cm
x 14 – x
Case 2:
Let potential at B is zero
B +3 μ C –4 μ C
(
K 3 × 10 –6 ) – K ( 4 × 10 ) = 0
–6

⎛ x ⎞ ⎛ (14 + x ) ⎞ x d = 14 cm
⎜⎝ ⎟ ⎜⎝ 100 ⎟⎠
100 ⎠

3 4
= ⇒ 42 + 3x = 4x
x 14 + x
⇒ x = 42 cm

13. Draw the equipotential surface for (a) a dipole and (b) two identical negative charges placed at a certain distance
apart.
Sol. Equipotential surface for
(a) a dipole

y-axis

x-axis
–q O +q
z-axis
Equipotential surface

(b) Two identical negative charges placed at a certain distance apart.

Equipotential
surface

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30 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

14. Three identical charges (q) are arranged at the corners of an equilateral triangle of side a and a charge q0
brought to the centre of the triangle, the three charges being held fixed at its corners. How much extra work
is needed to this?

Kq q0 ⎧ a
Sol. W = 3 ⎨∵ r =
r ⎩ 3
q
3Kq q0
W = a r a
So, ⎛a ⎞
⎜⎝ ⎟ q0
3⎠
r r
3 3 ⋅ q ⋅ q0 q a q
W =
4πε 0 ⋅ a

15. Derive an expression of stored potential energy, when a dipole rotated from stable equilibrium position to any
position in an external uniform electric field.
Sol. Potential energy can be associated with the orientation of an electric dipole in an electric field. Change in
potential energy is related to the work done by electric field as
y
+
dU = –dWE = − τ . dθ θ x
⇒ dU = −( − pE sin θkˆ ) . (dθ kˆ ) [∵ dθ = dθkˆ, anticlockw ise] –

⇒ dU = pE sinθ dθ (a) Potential energy is U

U2 θ2

⇒ ∫ dU = ∫ pE sin θdθ
U1 θ1
⇒ U2 – U1 = – pE[cosθ2 – cosθ1]

Let θ = 90° is taken as reference position or zero of potential energy. +

θ + dθ
∴ θ1 = 90° ⇒ U1 = 0
⇒ U2 – 0 = – pE[cos θ2 – cos 90°] –
⇒ U = –pEcos θ (b) Potential energy is U + dU

16. An electric dipole of dipole moment 10 μCm is placed along the axis of a right angled cone such that the vertex
of cone is at the centre of dipole. If the semivertex angle of cone is 30° and slant height of curved surface is
20 cm, then find the electrostatic potential at any point of circumference of base of cone

Sol. K .P.cos θ
V =
r 2 – a2 cos2 θ r
θ = 30°, P = 10 × 10–6 cm 30°
r = 20 cm
For a short dipole a  0

9 × 109 × 10 × 10 –6 3 90 × 103 × 3 100

V= × = × × 100
2 2 2 × 20 × 20 100
⎛ 20 ⎞
⎜⎝ ⎟ × 100
100 ⎠

9 3
V= × 10 4 volts
8

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 31
17. “Inside a conductor, electrostatic field is zero”, why?
Sol. Due to equal and opposite induced electric field inside the conductor, the net electrostatic field inside conductor
become zero.

18. What is electrostatic shielding? Explain.

Sol. Electrostatic shielding/screening is the phenomenon of protecting a certain region of space from external electric
field.

19. Derive an expression for capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor.

Sol. The arrangement consists of two thin conducting plates, each of area A and separated by d distance. When
charge q is given to first plate, a charge – q is induced on the inner face of other plate and positive on the
outer face of plate. As this face is connected to earth, a net negative charge is left on this plate. Thus, the
arrangement is equivalent to two thin sheets of charge.
The electric field between the plates is

σ
E= where σ is the charge density.
ε0
σ
E=
V ε0
As E = ;
d
V is the potential difference between the plates.

σd
V = Ed = ε
0

qd q
⇒ V = Aε as σ =
0 A

q q ε0 A
⇒ C = V = ⎛ qd ⎞ , C=
d
⎜⎝ A ε ⎟⎠
0

20. When a dielectric medium (slab) is inserted between the plates of a capacitor, then how is the capacitance
changed? Explain.
Sol. Capacitance becomes k times of original capacitance where “k” is dielectric constant of dielectric
Effect of Dielectric Slab (Inserted along the length of plates)
When a dielectric slab is placed, between the plates of capacitor its polarisation takes place. Thus a charge
–Qi appears on its left face and +Qi appears on its right face, as shown in diagram.

+Q –Qi +Qi –Q
σ
E Eo =
E= 0 ε0
K E0
E = E0 − E p

σi
Ep =
ε0

Qi
t σi =
A
d
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32 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

Potential difference between the plates can be calculated as,

⎛ t ⎞
V = E0(d – t) + Et = E 0 ⎜ d − t + ⎟
⎝ K ⎠

σ ⎛ t ⎞ Q ⎛ t ⎞
∴ V = ⎜d − t + ⎟ = ⎜d − t + ⎟
ε0 ⎝ K ⎠ Aε 0 ⎝ K⎠

Q ε0 A
As, C = ⇒ C=
V t
d −t +
K

Kε 0 A
Note : When t = d, C =
d

21. A slab of material of dielectric constant k has the area (1/4)th as that of the plates of a parallel plate capacitor
3
and has thickness d where d is the separation of plates. How is the capacitance changed when the slab
4
is inserted between the plates?

⎛ 3A ⎞ C1
⎜ ⎟ ε0
Sol. C = ⎝ 4 ⎠
1
d

⎛ A⎞ ⎛ A⎞
⎜⎝ ⎟⎠ ε 0 ⋅ K ⎜⎝ ⎟⎠ ε 0 C2 C3
4 4
C2 = , C3 =
3d d
4 4

Aε 0 ⋅ K Aε 0
⋅
C23 =
C2 ⋅ C3
= 3d d = K ⋅ Aε 0 × 3
C2 + C3 Aε 0 ⋅ K Aε 0 3d ( K + 3)
+
3d d

Aε 0 K
C23 = ⋅
d K +3

Ceq = C1 + C23

3 Aε 0 Aε 0 ⋅ K
+
= 4d d ( K + 3)

Aε 0 ⎡3 K ⎤
= ⎢4 + K + 3⎥
d ⎣ ⎦

Aε 0 ⎡ 3K + 9 + 4K ⎤
d ⎢⎣ 4 K + 12 ⎥⎦
=

Aε 0 ⎛ 7K + 9 ⎞
Ceq = ⎜ ⎟
d ⎝ 4K + 12 ⎠

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 33
22. A network of three 10 μF capacitors is connected to a 450 V supply, as shown in fig. Determine the charge
on each capacitor.
+
450 V
10 μF 10 μF

10 μF

Sol. C1 = 10 μ F 450 V ⇒ 450 V

C3 = 10 μ F 5 μF 10 μ F

C2 = 10 μ F
Q = 5 × 450 Q3 = 10 × 450
Q = 2250 μ C Q3 = 4500 μ C
Q1 = Q2 = 2250 μC
Q3 = 4500 μC

23. Prove that for an isolated spherical conductor the capacitance is directly proportional to the radius of conductor.
Sol. Capacity of an isolated spherical conductor
Consider a sphere with centre O and radius r, which is supplied with a charge = +q. This charge is distributed
uniformly over the outer surface of the sphere. Thus, the potential at every point on the surface is same and
is given by
q
V = 4πε r
0
O
q +q r
As C =
V
C = 4πε0r

24. Graphs for two capacitors of capacitances C1 and C2 are shown in figure. The area of plates for both capacitors
are same but separation between plates is double for C1 to that of C2. Which of the graph corresponds to C1
and C2 and why?
A
V

Q
Sol. A for C1 and B for C2

25. Two capacitors of capacitance 6 μF and 4 μF are connected in parallel with a battery. The charge on 6μF
capacitor is 24 μC, then find the charge on another capacitor and voltage of battery.

Sol. Q1 Q2
= C1 = 6 μ F, Q1 = 24 μ C
C1 C2

24 Q2
= Q2 = ?
6 4 C2 = 4 μ F

Q2 = 16 μC
V

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34 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

26. A long charged conducting cylinder of linear charge density λ is surrounded by a hollow co-axial conducting
cylinder. The outer surface of hollow cylinder is earthed. Find the potential difference between cylinders, if radius
of inner cylinder is a and outer hollow cylinder is b.
A a  
λ
Sol. ∫ dv = – ∫ E ⋅ dr
B b

a
λ b
VA – VB = – ∫ dr
2πε0 r
b a
λ a
A B
=– ⎡⎣loge r ⎤⎦ b
2πε 0
–λ
=
2πε0
(loge a – loge b)

λ b
⇒ VA – VB = 2πε loge a
0
( )
∴ Cylinder B is earthed so VB = 0 then,

VA – 0 =
λ
2πε 0
( )
loge b
a

27. Two conducting sphere of radius a and 2a having same charge density +σ are placed far distance away. When
they are connected by a conducting wire then due to charge re-distribution their potential change. Find the
common potential of each sphere.
Sol. Now, VA = VB

K .q A K .qB +σ
=
a 2a +σ

qB
qA = Conducting wire
2 A B
Also, qA + qB = ( σ4πa 2
+ σ 4π ( 2a )
2
) Large distance

qB
+ qB = σ 4πa 2 5
2

40 2
qB = πa ⋅ σ
3

Kq K ⋅ σ ⋅ 4 πr 2 1 σ 4 πr 2
∴ V = = = 4πε ⋅ r
r r 0

σr
V= ε
0

K ⋅ qB 1 40πa 2 ⋅ σ
Common potential V = = ×
2a 4πε 0 × 2a 3

5σ ⋅ a
V =
3ε 0

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 35
28. Determine the electrostatic potential energy of a system consisting of two charges 5 μC and –3 μC placed

2 × 105
in an external electric field E = V/m at (-3 cm, 0, 0) and (3 cm, 0, 0) respectively, where r is distance
r2
from origin. What would the electrostatic energy of the configuration be?
Sol. Given electric field is due to a unit positive point charge q placed at origin.

K ⋅ q 2 × 105 200
= ⇒ q= μC
r2 r2 9

⎛ 200 ⎞ ⎛ 200 ⎞
K⎜
⎝ 9 ⎠
(
× 10 –6 ⎟ 5 × 10 –6 )
K⎜
⎝ 9 ⎠
(
× 10 –6 ⎟ 3 × 10 –6 ) ( )(
K 5 × 10 –6 3 × 10 –6 )
Energy = – –
3 × 10 –2 3 × 10 –2 6 × 10 –2

9 ⎛ 200 5 200 5 ⎞ 10 –12

= 9 × 10 ⎜⎝ × – – ⎟×
9 3 9 2 ⎠ 10 –2

⎛ 200 ⎛ 5 – 3 ⎞ 5 ⎞ 1 9 ⎛ 200 2 5⎞
= 9 ⎜⎝ ×⎜
⎝ ⎟⎠ – ⎟ = ⎜ × – ⎟
9 3 2 ⎠ 10 10 ⎝ 9 3 2⎠

40 9 160 – 27 133
= – = ⇒ Energy = J
3 4 12 12

29. Define the polar and non-polar dielectric materials with examples.
Sol. In general the dielectric can be classified into Polar and Non-polar dielectrics. The molecules of a substance
may be polar or non-polar. In a non-polar molecule, the centres of positive and negative charges coincide.
The molecule thus has no permanent (or intrinsic) dipole moment. Examples of non-polar molecules are
oxygen (O2) and hydrogen (H2) molecules which, because of their symmetry, have no dipole moment. On the
other hand, a polar molecule is one in which the centres of positive and negative charges are separated (even
when there is no external field). Such molecules have a permanent dipole moment. An ionic molecule such
as HCl or a molecule of water (H2O) are examples of polar molecules.

30. A 9 μF capacitor is charged by 100 V battery. The capacitor is disconnected from battery and connected with
another identical uncharged capacitor. What is the electrostatic energy stored by the system?
Sol. For isolated system
Net initial charge = Net final charge
C1 = 9 μF
900 + 0 = 9 V + 9 V
Qi = 900 μC
V = 50 volts
Key
1 1 C2 = 9 μF
U = C1V 2 + C2V 2
2 2 Qi = 0
1
= × 18 μF × 50 × 50
2
= 9 × 2500 × 10–6
= 22400 × 10–6 J
= 2.2 × 10–2 J

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36 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

Long Answer Type Questions :

31. Discuss briefly the principle, construction and working of Van-de-Graff electrostatic generator.
Sol. Van de Graaff Generator
If we place a charge anywhere in a conductor, the charge will move to the outside surface, and the field inside
the conductor will be zero. Robert Van de Graaff took advantage of this concept in 1931 to build an accelerator,
an apparatus, that produces highly energetic charged particles. Such particles are useful for microscopic
probes of matter and as cancer treatments. Van de Graaff used a device similar in concept to the apperatus
shown schematically in figure. An insulated belt (or chain) continuously brings charge to the inside of a hollow
conductor, which then moves to the outside surface of the conductor. The electric potential on the spherical
q
conducting surface increases as charge flows to its surface V = . An ion source produces charged
4πε 0 R
atoms whose sign is such as to be repelled from the region of high potential and thus accelerated. Such
devices are called Van de Graaff accelerators of Van de Graaff generators, and the beams they or other
accelerators produce play an important role in modern techonology. for example, such beems are used to
make microcircuits.
+ ++ Hollow
++ + metal
+ + sphere
+ +
+ +
+ +
Charge taken
on belt
+
+ Insulator

+
+ Charge
+ carrying
belt
+
Charge put +
on belt

Motor
rotating belt

Supply circuit

32. (i) When a capacitor of capacitance C charged upto a potential V, then derive an expression for energy stored
in the capacitor.
(ii) If electric field between plates of capacitor is E then derive the expression of energy density.
Sol. (i) Energy stored in a capacitor during the charging of a capacitor, work has to be done to add charge to
the capacitor against its potential. This work is stored in the capacitor as electrical energy.
Suppose during the charging of capacitor its potential at any instant is given by
q
V= small amount of work done in adding a charge dq is given by
C
q
dW = dq
C
Total work done in giving a charge Q to the condenser is
Q
q
W= ∫ C dq
0
Q
⎡ q2 ⎤
∴W= ⎢ ⎥
⎣ 2C ⎦ 0
Q2
∴W=
2C
Q2 1 1
∴U= = CV 2 = QV
2C 2 2
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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 37
(ii) Energy density in parallel plate capacitor
The volume of a parallel plate capacitor is Ad
1
CV 2 A
∴ Energy density u =
U
= 2 where C = ε0 , V = Ed
Ad Ad d

1 ⎛ ε0 A ⎞ ⎛ E 2d 2 ⎞ 1
∴ u = ⎜⎝ = ε0E 2
2 d ⎟⎠ ⎜⎝ Ad ⎟⎠ 2

33. Derive an expression for electrostatic potential due to an electric dipole at any point p ( r , θ) .

Sol. Potential due to an electric dipole

In the previous chapter on electric charges and field, we have already calculated the electric field due to an
electric dipole and seen that for an ideal (short) dipole, the electric field varies inversely as r 3, we now determine
the potential due to an electric dipole.
AB be an electric dipole of length 2a and let P be any point where OP = r.
Let θ be the angle between r and the dipole axis.
AB = 2a, AO = OB = a, OP = r

OC OC P
In Δ OAC, cos θ = =
OA a
∴ OC = a cos θ
Also OD = a cos θ
If r >>a, PA ≈ PC = OP + OC = r + a cos θ r
PB ≈ PD = OP – OD = r – a cos θ
V is the potential due to electric dipole,

⎛ 1 ⎞⎡ q q ⎤ D
–
⎝ 4πε 0 ⎟⎠ ⎢⎣ PB PA ⎥⎦
V= ⎜

θ
A a a B
⎛ 1 ⎞ ⎡ 1 1 ⎤
–q +q
V = ⎜ 4πε ⎟ q ⎢ r – a cos θ – r + a cos θ ⎥ θ O
⎝ 0⎠ ⎣( ) ( )⎦ P
C
⎛ 1 ⎞ 2 a q cos θ ⎛ 1 ⎞ p cos θ
V = ⎝⎜ 4πε ⎠⎟ r 2 – a 2 cos2 θ = ⎝⎜ 4πε ⎠⎟ r 2 – a 2 cos2 θ
0 ( ) 0 ( )
where P is dipole moment.
Special Cases
1. When the point P lies on the axial line of the dipole on the side of positive charge, θ = 0; cos θ = 1

⎛ 1 ⎞ p
∴ V = ⎜⎝ 4πε ⎟⎠ 2
0 (
r – a2 )
2. When P lies on other side, θ = 180 ; cos θ = – 1.

⎛ 1 ⎞ p
∴ V = – ⎜⎝ 4πε ⎟⎠ 2
0 r – (
a2 )
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38 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

3. When the point P lies on equatorial line, θ = 90 ; cos θ = 0.

∴V=0
 
⎛ 1 ⎞ p⋅r 
4. In general V = ⎜ ⎟ 3 , for a short dipole, at a point whose position vector with respect to dipole is r .
⎝ 4πε 0 ⎠ r

34. Three capacitors of capacitance C1, C2 and C3 are connected (i) in series and (ii) in parallel. Find the energy
stored in each combination when they are connected to the same battery of emf V one by one.
Sol. Capacitors in series
Consider three capacitors connected in series. Consider the shown arrangement of three capacitors in series.
Let a V potential is applied to the circuit and + Q be the charge, which will became on all the capacitors. Let V1
,V2 ,V3 be the individual potentials of the capacitors and their respective capacitance is C1 ,C2 ,C3 .
Therefore, Q = C1 V1 = C2 V2 = C3 V3

Q
But V = V1 + V2 + V3 =
C C1 C2 C3
a
where C is the effective capacitance .
V1 V2 V3
Q Q Q Q
∴ = + +
C C1 C2 C3 V
1 1 1 1
∴ = + +
C C1 C2 C3

Capacitors in parallel
Consider three capacitors connected in parallel. A voltage V is applied across the combination. Q1 ,Q2 ,Q3 be the
charge on each capacitor and C1 ,C2 ,C3 be their respective capacitance.
Q1 = C1 V, Q2 = C2 V, Q3 = C3 V
Q1 C1 V
As Q = CV Q Q2 C2 V
where C is the net capacitance of the combination,
Q3
∴ Q = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 C3 V
∴ CV = C1 V + C2 V + C3 V V
∴ C = C1 + C2 + C3
Energy stored :-
In series combination

1 ⎛ Q2 Q2 Q2 ⎞
U= ⎜ + + ⎟
2 ⎝ C1 C2 C3 ⎠

Q2 ⎛ 1 1 1⎞
U= + +
2 ⎝ C1 C2 C3 ⎟⎠
⎜

In parallel combination
1 1 1
U= C1V 2 + C2V 2 + C3V 2
2 2 2
1
U= (C + C2 + C3 )V 2
2 1

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 39
35. What is a parallel plate capacitor? Explain the principle of a capacitor. Derive an expression for the capacitance
of a parallel plate capacitor.
Sol. Parallel plate capacitor
The arrangement consists of two thin conducting plates, each of area A and separated by d distance. When
charge q is given to first plate, a charge – q is induced on the inner face of other plate and positive on the
outer face of plate. As this face is connected to earth, a net negative charge is left on this plate. Thus, the
arrangement is equivalent to two thin sheets of charge.
The electric field between the plates is

σ
E= where σ is the charge density.
ε0

V
As E = ; σ
d E=
ε0
V is the potential difference between the plates.
σd
V = Ed = ε
0

qd q
⇒ V = A ε as σ =
0 A
q q ε0 A
⇒ C = V = ⎛ qd ⎞ C=
d
⎜⎝ A ε ⎟⎠
0

36. (i) What is the dimensional formula of capacitance?

(ii) Why does the electric field inside a dielectric decrease when it is placed in an external electric field?
(iii) A parallel plate capacitor has a capacitance of 3 μF in air and 24 μF when dielectric medium is introduced.
What is dielectric constant of the medium?
Sol. (i) [ M–1 L–2 A2 T4]
(ii) Due to induced electric field in opposite directions
(iii) C0 = 3 μF
C = 24 μF = C0 K

24
⇒ K=
3
⇒K=8

37. (i) In the given figure, there are four point charges placed at the vertex of a square of side 7 cm. If q1 = +18 μC,
q2 = –24 μC, q3 = +35 μC and q4 = +16 μC, then find the electric potential at the centre O of the square,
assume the potential to be zero at infinity.
q4 q3

q1 q2

( )
(ii) An electric field E = 2iˆ + 3 ˆj N/C exists in the space. If potential at the origin is taken to be 10 volt, then
find the potential at (2 m, 1 m).

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40 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

Kq1 Kq2 Kq3 Kq4

Sol. (i) V0 = + + +
r r r r

1
= 4πε r [ +18 – 24 + 35 + 16 ] × 10
–6

9 × 109
= × 45 × 10 –6 volt
⎛ 7 ⎞ × 10 –2
⎜⎝ ⎟
2⎠

9 × 45 × 105
⇒ V0 = volt
⎛7 ⎞
⎜⎝ ⎟
2⎠


(ii) E = 2iˆ + 3 jˆ

 
∫ dV = ∫ –E ⋅ dr
V ( 2,1)
∫ dV = – ∫ ( 2 iˆ + 3 jˆ) ⋅ ( dx iˆ + dy jˆ)
10 ( 0,0)

( 2,1)
V – 10 = – ∫ 2dx + 3dy
( 0,0)
( 2,1)
V – 10 = – ( 2 x + 3 y )( 0,0)

V = 10 – (2 × 2 + 3 × 1) = 10 – 7
V = 3 volt

38. (i) Derive an expression for potential energy of an electric dipole in an uniform electric field.
(ii) Three identical charges q are at the vertices of an equilateral triangle of side L. How much work is done
L
in bringing them closer to an equilateral triangle of side ?
2
y
+
Sol. (i) Potential Energy of a dipole in an electric field
θ x
Potential energy can be associated with the orientation of an
electric dipole in an electric field. Change in potential energy is –
related to the work done by electric field as
(a) Potential energy is U
dU = –dWE = − τ . dθ

⇒ dU = −( − pE sin θkˆ ) . (dθ kˆ ) [∵ d θ = d θkˆ, anticlockwise]
+
⇒ dU = pE sinθ dθ θ + dθ

U2 θ2 –
⇒ ∫ dU = ∫ pE sin θdθ
U1 θ1
⇒ U2 – U1 = – pE[cosθ2 – cosθ1]
(b) Potential energy is U + dU

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 41
Let θ = 90° is taken as reference position or zero of potential energy.
∴ θ1 = 90° ⇒ U1 = 0
⇒ U2 – 0 = – pE[cos θ2 – cos 90°]
⇒ U = –pEcos θ
(ii) Wext = Uf – Ui

⎛ ⎞
3q 2 ⎜ 1 1⎟
W = –
4πε0 ⎜ L
⎝ 2
L⎟
⎠ ( )
3q 2
=
4πε0 L

39. (i) “At the surface of a charged conductor electrostatics field must be normal to the surface at every point.”
Explain it.
(ii) An electrical technician requires a capacitance of 4 μF in a circuit across a potential difference of 500 V.
A large number of 1 μF capacitors are available to him each of which can withstand a potential difference
of not more than 150 V. Suggest a possible arrangement that requires the minimum number of capacitors.
Sol. (i) A charge conductor behaves as an equipotential surface. The potential at each point on the surface of it
is same. So, work done to move a unit positive over the surface from one point to another point is zero.
As, W = q ΔV = 0
 
Also, W = 0 = q ∫ E ⋅ ds

 
Hence, E ⊥ ds

So, elelctric field lines must be normal to the surface at every point.
(ii) The circuit consists of 16 rows with each row containing 4 capacitors each of value 1 μF. This circuit is
connected to a 500 volts battery.

40. A spherical capacitor consists of two concentric spherical conductors of radius a and b respectively (b > a).
Then inner sphere is earthed and outer sphere is given a positive charge of Q, then find the capacitance of
the system.
Sol. Vinner = 0 (as grounded)

KQ ' KQ +Q
+ =0
a b Q'

Qa a
Q' = –
b b

K⎛ a ⎞ KQ KQ ⎛ b – a ⎞
ΔV = ⎜⎝ –Q ⎟⎠ + = ⎜ ⎟
b b b b ⎝ b ⎠

Q Qb 2 4πε 0 ⋅ b 2
C= ⇒ C= ⇒ C=
ΔV KQ ( b – a ) b–a

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42 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

41. (i) Derive the relation between electric field intensity and electrostatic potential.
(ii) In a parallel plate capacitor with a dielectric medium of dielectric constant 8, each plate has an area of
2 × 10−3 m2 and distance between the plates is 2 mm. Calculate the capacitance of capacitor, if this
capacitor is connected to a 100 V supply, what is the charge on each plate of the capacitor?

Sol. (i) Relation between Electric Field and Potential

−WE
As we know that ΔV =
q0

−WE
⇒ Vf – Vi =
q0

  
Now, WE = ∫ F · dr , where F is the force due to electric field.

 
– ∫ F · dr
⇒ Vf – Vi =
q0

rf
  ⎡ r ⎤
or, Vf – Vi = – ∫ E · dr ⎢If V∞ = 0, then V = – ∫ Edr ⎥
ri ⎢⎣ ∞ ⎥⎦

  ⎡ −dWE ⎤
The above result can also be expressed in differential form as, dV = – E · dr ⎢as dV = ⎥
⎣ q0 ⎦
 
The negative sign in the expression dV = – E · dr signifies that as one moves in the direction of electric field,
potential decreases.

In Cartesian form, E = E x iˆ + E y jˆ + E z kˆ


dr = dxiˆ + dyjˆ + dzkˆ

⇒ dV = – Exdx – Eydy – Ezdz

⇒ Ex =
−∂V −∂V – ∂V
; Ey = ; Ez =
∂x ∂y ∂z

(ii) K = 8, A = 2 × 10–3 m2, d = 2 × 10–3 mm

V = 100 volts

Aε 0 K
C=
d
2 × 10 –3 × 8.85 × 10 –12 × 8
=
2 × 10 –3
= 70.8 × 10–12 F

Q = CV = 70.8 × 10–12 × 100

Q = 70.8 × 10–8 C.

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 43
42. (i) What is capacitance?
(ii) Two charges q1 = +4 μC and q2 = –4 μC are placed at a distance 90 cm. Estimate the potential energy
of system in eV taking the potential energy as zero when charges q1 and q2 are at infinite separation.
Sol. (i) Any conducting object that carries a charge is characterized by an electric potential that is constant
everywhere on and within that object. If two such conductors have a potential difference between them
then, as any potential difference is able to accelerate charges, the system effectively stores energy. Such
a device that can maintain a potential difference, storing energy by storing charge is called capacitor.

K ⋅ q1q2 9 × 109 × 4 × 10 –6 × –4 × 10 –6
(ii) U = = × 100
r 90

U = 160 × 10–2 J = 1.6 J

∵ 1 eV = 1.6 × 10–19 J
so, U = 1019 eV

43. Derive an expression for force on each plate of parallel plate capacitor if magnitude of charge on each plate
is Q, Area of each plate is A and separation between plates is d.
Sol. F = qE

σ
F=q
2ε 0

1 σq q2
F= 2 ε ⇒ F = 2 Aε
0 0

44. (i) A regular hexagon of side a has a charge Q at each of its vertices. Determine the electrostatic potential
due to this charge array at the centre of Hexagon.
(ii) The plates of a parallel plate capacitor has an area of 30 cm2 each and separation 2 mm is charged by
a battery of emf 200 V. Calculate the electrostatic energy stored in the capacitor.

KQ
Sol. (i) V0 = ×6 Q Q
r
O
6KQ Q Q
V0 = r
a
Q Q
a
1 2 1 Aε 0 2 30 8.85 × 10 –12
(ii) U = CV = V = × × 200 × 200
2 2 d 10000 2 × 2 × 10 –3

U = 26.55 ×10–9 J = 2.7 × 10–8 J

45. (i) Two concentric spherical conductors of radius a and b (b > a) inner sphere has q1 charge and outer sphere
has q2. When they are connected by a conducting wire then prove that charge on inner sphere must be
zero.
(ii) Find the equivalent capacitance between A and B.

10μF 20μF 30μF

A B

(iii) If the given combination is connected with a battery of emf 200 volt then find the charge on each capacitor.

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44 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

Sol. (i) Charge on inner sphere will become zero, as all the charges flow to outer sphere through conducting
wire.
q2
(ii) Ceq = 60 μF
b
q1
10 μ F 20 μ F 30 μ F a
A B
C1 C2 C3 Conducting wire

Here C1, C2,C3 are in parallel.

(iii) Q = CV

Q1 = 10 × 200 = 2000 μC

Q2 = 20 × 200 = 4000 μC

Q3 = 30 × 200 = 6000 μC

SECTION - B
Model Test Paper
1. Define 1 farad.

Sol. Capacitance of a capacitor is defined to be as 1 farad if amount of charge required to raise the potential of
a conductor by one volt, is unity.

2. State the principle of a capacitor.

Sol. Capacitor works on the principle of storing large amounts of electric charge and hence electrical energy in a
small space.

3. What is electrostatic shielding?

Sol. Electrostatic shelding/screening is the phenomenon of protecting a certain region of space from external electric
field.

4. Write the ratio of electric potential at a distance r on equatorial position to the electric potential at a distance
r on axial position of an electric dipole.

Sol. Zero

5. Calculate the radius of a spherical conductor of capacitance 1 pF.

Sol. For a isolated spherical conductor

C = 4πε 0 R

C
R=
4πε 0

R = 9 × 109 × 10–12

⇒ R = 9 × 10–3 m
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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 45
6. A regular hexagon of side 10 cm has a charge of 5 μC at each of its vertices. Calculate the potential at the
centre of the hexagon. q q
Sol. q = 5 μC r
r
r
Kq q
r
q
V0 = ×6
r r r

9 × 109 × 5 × 10 –6 × 6 × 100 q q
= = 2.7 × 106 volts
10 L = 10 cm

7. Derive the expression for energy stored in a capacitor

Sol. During the charging of a capacitor, work has to be done to add charge to the capacitor against its potential.
This work is stored in the capacitor as electrical energy.
Suppose during the charging of capacitor its potential at any instant is given by

q
V= small amount of work done in adding a charge dq is given by
C

q
dW = dq
C
Total work done in giving a charge Q to the condenser is

Q
q
W= ∫ C dq
0

Q
⎡ q2 ⎤
∴W= ⎢ ⎥
⎣ 2C ⎦ 0

Q2
∴W=
2C

Q2 1 1
∴U= = CV 2 = QV
2C 2 2

8. Five capacitors are connected as shown in the diagram. Calculate equivalent capacitance between the points
x and y.
1 μF 2 μF

x y
5 μF
3 μF 4 μF

2 12
Sol. Ceq = +5+
3 7 C1 C2
C5
14 + 105 + 36
= x y
21

155 C3 C4
Ceq = μF
21

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46 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

9. Keeping the voltage of the charging source constant, what would be the percentage change in the energy stored in
a parallel plate capacitor if the separation between its plates were to be decreased by 10% ?
Sol. V = constant.

Ef – E i
% change in energy = × 100 %
Ei

1 1
C 'V 2 – CV 2
= 2 2 × 100%
1
CV 2
2

C'
= – 1 × 100%
C

⎛ 10 ⎞
=⎜ – 1⎟ × 100%
⎝ 9 ⎠

100
= %
9

10. At the surface of a charged conductor, electrostatic field must be normal to the surface at every point. Explain.
Sol. The surface of a charged conductor acts as a equipotential surface. So, work done in moving a charge from
one point to another point over such a surface is zero, as potential on each point of such a surface is same

W = q ΔV = 0
 
Also, W = ∫ F ⋅ ds = 0

So, it suggest electric field lines must be perpendicular to surface at every point.

11. Draw equipotential surfaces for

(i) an electric dipole
(ii) two identical positive charges
Sol. (i) Equipotential surface for a dipole

y-axis

x-axis
–q O +q
z-axis
Equipotential surface

(ii) Two identical positive charge

+
+
Equipotential Surface

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 47
12. Determine the electrostatic potential energy of the system consisting of two charges 7 μC and –2 μC placed
at (– 9 cm, 0, 0) and (9 cm, 0, 0). Also find the work required to separate the two charges infinitely away
from each other.
Sol. Electrostatic potential energy = U
K .q1q2 q1 = 7 μ C q2 = –2 μ C
U=
r
(–9 cm, 0, 0) (9 cm, 0, 0)
9 × 109 × 7 × 10 –6 × –2 × 10 –6
U= × 100
18

U = 0.7 J

W = 0.7 J

13. A parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates has a capacitance of 8 pF. What will be the capacitance if
the distance between the plates is reduced by half and the space between them is filled with a substance of
dielectric constant K = 6 ?
Sol. C = 8 pF, distance = d

d
C’ = ? , distance = ,K=6
2
Aε0
C = 8 pF =
d

ε0
C ' = K .A.
d 2

C' Aε 2 ⋅ d
= K. 0
C d ⋅ Aε 0

C’ = C × 2K
= 8 pF × 2 × 6

C ' = 96pF

14. A and B are two concentric hollow metallic shells of radius RA and RB. A is given a charge QA while B is given
a charge QB. Find the electric potential at a distance R from the centre such that
(a) R < RA,
(b) RA < R < RB
(c) R > RB

⎛Q Q ⎞
Sol. (a) V = K ⎜ A + B ⎟
⎝ A RB ⎠
R QB
RB
QA
⎛Q Q ⎞ RA
(b) V = K ⎜ A + B ⎟
⎝ R RB ⎠

⎛ Q + QB ⎞
(c) V = K ⎜ A
⎝ R ⎟⎠

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48 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

15. Derive an expression for electric potential energy of an electric dipole in an external electric field.

Sol. Potential Energy of a dipole in an electric field

Potential energy can be associated with the orientation of an electric dipole in an electric field. Change in
potential energy is related to the work done by electric field as

dU = –dWE = − τ . dθ
y
+
⇒ dU = −( − pE sin θkˆ ) . (dθ kˆ ) [∵ dθ = dθkˆ, anticlockw ise] θ
x
⇒ dU = pE sinθ dθ –

U2 θ2
(a) Potential energy is U
⇒ ∫ dU = ∫ pE sin θdθ ⇒ U2 – U1 = – pE[cosθ2 – cosθ1]
U1 θ1 +
θ + dθ
Let θ = 90° is taken as reference position or zero of potential energy.
–
∴ θ1 = 90° ⇒ U1 = 0
(b) Potential energy is U + dU
⇒ U2 – 0 = – pE[cos θ2 – cos 90°]

⇒ U = –pEcos θ

16. Explain the difference in behaviour of a conductor and a dielectric in an external electric field.

Sol. When a conductor is placed in an external electric field, then net electric field inside conductor becomes zero
due to exactly equal and opposite induced fields.

But when a dielectric is placed in an external electric field then net electric field inside dielectric get reduced
due to induced opposite electric field. Net electric field inside dielectric is given by

Electric field in air

Enet =
Dielectric constant

17. A slab of material of dielectric constant K having same area as the plates of a parallel plate capacitor but has
a thickness ‘t ‘ ( t < d ), where d is the separation of the plates. What is the capacitance when the slab is
inserted between the plates?

σ ⎡
( d – t ) + ⎤⎥
t
Sol. V = ⎢ Dielectric slab
ε0 ⎣ K⎦

Q σA
C= =
V V

σA
C=
σ⎡
( d – t ) + K ⎤⎥
t t
ε 0 ⎢⎣ ⎦ d

A ⋅ ε0
C=
⎡ t⎤
⎢⎣( d – t ) + K ⎥⎦

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Solutions of Assignment (Set-1) Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance 49
18. When two capacitors of capacitance C1 and C2 are connected in series, the net capacitance is 3 μF. When
connected in parallel, the effective capacitance is 16 μF. Calculate the values of C1 and C2
Sol. Ceq = 3 μF (in series)

C1 ⋅ C2
= 3 μF ...(i)
C1 + C2

C1 + C2 = 16 μF ....(ii)
from equation (i) and (ii), we get
C1 = 12 μF and C2 = 4 μF or C1 = 4 μF and C2 = 12 μF

19. Give proper explanation of the statement “Electric field is in the direction in which the potential decreases
steepest”.
dV
Sol. Er = – , Er is the component of this electric field in direction of ‘dr’. A rectangular component of a vector
dr
is always less than the magnitude of the vector itself. Thus, the direction in which Er is maximum is the actual
dV
direction of the electric field. Maximum Er implies that – is maximum or potential decreases at the
dr
maximum rate.

20. With the help of a diagram, explain the principle of working of a Van De Graaff generator.

Sol. Van de Graaff Generator

If we place a charge anywhere in a conductor, the charge will move to the outside surface, and the field inside
the conductor will be zero. Robert Van De Graaff took advantage of this concept in 1931 to build an accelerator,
an apparatus, that produces highly energetic charged particles. Such particles are useful for microscopic
probes of matter and as cancer treatments. Van de Graaff used a device similar in concept to the apperatus
shown schematically in figure. An insulated belt (or chain) continuously brings charge to the inside of a hollow
conductor, which then moves to the outside surface of the conductor. The electric potential on the spherical
q
conducting surface increases as charge flows to its surface V = . An ion source produces charged
4πε 0 R
atoms whose sign is such as to be repelled from the region of high potential and thus accelerated. Such
devices are called Van de Graaff accelerators of Van de Graaff generators, and the beams they or other
accelerators produce play an important role in modern techonology. for example, such beems are used to
make microcircuits.

+ ++ Hollow
+ + + metal
+ +
sphere

+ +
+ +
+
Charge taken
on belt
+
+ Insulator

+
+ Charge
+ carrying
belt
+
Charge put
on belt
+

Motor
rotating belt

Supply circuit

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50 Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance Solutions of Assignment (Set-1)

21. A parallel plate capacitor of plate area A and separation d is charged to a potential V. The battery is then
disconnected and a dielectric slab of thickness d and dielectric constant K is inserted in the capacitor. What
change, if any, will take place in
(a) Charge on the plates
(b) Electric field between the plates
(c) Energy stored
(d) Voltage across the capacitor
(e) Capacitance of the capacitor
Sol. (a) Charge remain same
1
(b) Electric field between the plates becomes times of original electric field
K
1
(c) Energy stored will becomes times of original energy stored
K
1
(d) Voltage across capacitor becomes times of original voltage (As, V = Ed)
K
(e) Capacitance of the capacitor becomes ‘K’ time the original capacitance.

  

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