An electric dipole of moment p is placed in an electric field of intensity E. The dipole acquires a position such that the axis of the dipole makes an angle with the direction of the field. Assuming the potential energy of the dipole to be zero when = 90 , the torque and the potential energy of the dipole will respectively be
- pE , -pE
- pE , -2pE
- pE , 2pE
- pE , -pE
Answer
(1) pE , -pE
Solution
Torque on the dipole: = p E
= pE
Potential energy (taking U = 0 at = 90 ):
U = 90 pE d = -pE + pE 90
U = -pE
Answer: (1)