CHAPTER-14

ELECTROSTATICS
FILL IN THE BLANKS
1.

Five identical capacitor, each of area A, are arranged such that adjacent plates are at a distance d apart, the plates
are connected to a source of emf V as shown in the figure.
(1984; 2M)
The charge on plate 1 is .... and on plate 4 is ....

2.

Figure shows line of constant potential in a region in which an electric field is present. The values of the potential
are written in brackets of the points A, B and C, the magnitude of the electric field is greatest at the point .....
(1984; 2M)

(50V)
(40V)
(30V)
(20V)

(10V)

3.

Two small balls having equal positive charge Q (coulomb) on each are suspended by two insulating strings of equal
length L (metre) from a hook fixed to a stand. The whole set-up is taken in a satellite into space where there is no
gravity (state of weightlessness). The angle between the strings is ..... and the tension in each string is .... newtons.
(1986; 2M)

4.

Two parallel plate capacitors of capacitances C and 2C are connected in parallel and charged to a potential difference
V. The battery is then disconnected and the region between the plates of capacitor C is completely filled with a
material of dielectric constant K. The potential difference across the capacitors now become ......
(1988; 2M)

5.

A point charge q moves from point P to point S along the path PQRS (Fig.) in a uniform electric field E pointing
parallel to the positive direction of the X-axis. The co-ordinates of points, P, Q, R and S are (a, b, 0), (2a, 0, 0), (a,
b, 0), (0, 0, 0) respectively. The work done by the field in the above process is given by the expression.
(1989; 2M)
Y
P
Q

x
E

248

6.

The electric potential V at any point x, y, z (all in metres) in space is given V = 4x2 volt. The electric field at the
point (1m, 0.2 m) is .... V/m
(1992; 1M)

7.

Five point charges, each of value + q coulomb, are placed on five vertices of a regular hexagon of side L metre.
The magnitude of the force on the point charge of value q coulomb placed at the centre of the hexagon is ...
newton.
(1982; 1M)
q

q
q
q
q

TRUE/FALSE
1.

The work done in carrying a point charge from one point to another in an electrostatic field depends on the path
along which the point charge is carried.
(1981; 2M)

2.

Two identical metallic spheres of exactly equal masses are taken. One is given a positive charge Q coulomb and
the other an equal negative charge. Their masses after charging are different.
(1983; 2M)

3.

A small metal ball is suspended in a uniform electric field with the help of an insulated thread. If high energy Xray beam falls on the ball, the ball will be deflected in the direction of the field.
(1983; 2M)

4.

Two protons A and B are placed in between the two plates of a parallel plate capacitor charged to a potential
difference V as shown in the figure. The forces on the two protons are identical.
(1986; 3M)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
B
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+ V

5.

A ring of radius R carries a uniformly distributed charge + Q. A point charge q is placed in the axis of the ring
at a distance 2R from the centre of the ring and released from rest. The particle executes a simple harmonic motion
along the axis of the ring.
(1988; 2M)

6.

An electric line of forces in the x-y plane is given by the equation x2 + y2 = 1. A particle with unit positive charge,
initially at rest at the point x = 1, y = 0 in the x-y plane, will move along the circular line of force. (1988; 2M)

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS
Only One option is correct :
1. An alpha particle of energy 5 MeV is scattered through
180 by a fixed uranium nucleus. The distance of
closest approach is of the order of :
(1981; 2M)
(a) 1
(b) 1010 cm
(c) 1012 cm
(d) 1015 cm
2.

(c) same as at a point 5 cm away from the surface

(d) same as at a point 25 cm away from the surface
3.

A hollow metal sphere of radius 5 cm is charged such

that the potential on its surface is 10 V. The potential
at the centre of the sphere is :
(1983; 1M)
(a) zero
(b) 10 V
249

Two equal negative charges q are fixed at points

(0, a) and (0, a) on y-axis. A positive charge Q is
released from rest at the point (2a, 0) on the x-axis.
The charge Q will :
(1984; 2M)
(a) execute simple harmonic motion about the origin
(b) move to the origin and remain at rest
(c) move to infinity
(d) execute oscillatory but not simple harmonic
motion

4.

0) and (d, 0) respectively of x-y co-ordinate system.

Then:
(1995; 2M)
(a) the electric field E at all points on the x-axis has
the same direction
(b) work has to be done in bringing at a test charge
from to the origin
(c) electric field at all point on y-axis is along x-axis
(d) the dipole moment is 2qd along the x-axis

A charge q is placed at the centre of the line joining

two equal charge Q. The system of the three charges
will be in equilibrium if q is equal to : (1987; 2M)
(a)

Q
2

(b)

Q
4

Q
Q
(d) +
4
2
A solid conducting sphere having a charge Q is
surrounded by an uncharged concentric conducting
hollow spherical shell. Let the potential difference
between the surface of the solid sphere and that of the
outer surface of the hollow shell be V. If the shell is
now given a charge of 3Q, the new potential difference between the same two surfaces is :(1999; 2M)
(a) V
(b) 2V
(c) 4V
(d) 2V
(c) +

5.

6.

9.

Seven capacitors each of capacitance 2F are connected in a configuration to obtain an effective capaci-

10
F . Which of the following combination will
11
achieve the desired result be ?
(1990; 2M)
tance

(a)

A parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C is connected to a battery and is charged to a potential

difference V. Another capacitor of capacitance 2C is
similarly charged to a potential difference 2V. The
charging battery is now disconnected and the capacitors are connected in parallel to each other in such a
way that the positive terminal of one is connected to
the negative terminal of the other. The final energy of
the configuration is :
(1995; 2M)
(a) zero

(b)

25
CV 2
6

3
CV 2
2

9
CV 2
2
ur
10. The magnitude of electric field E in the annular region
of a charged cylindrical capacitor :
(1996; 2M)
(a) is same through out
(b) is higher, near the outer cylinder than the inner
cylinder
(c) varies as 1/r, where r is the distance from the axis
(d) varies as 1/r2 , where r is the distance from the axis
(c)

(d)

(b)
11. A metallic solid sphere is placed in a uniform electric
field. The lines of force follow the path (s) shown in
figure as :
(1996; 2M)
(c)

1
2
3
4

1
2
3
4

(d)
7.

Two identical thin rings, each of radius R are coaxially

placedadistance
R apart. If Q1 and Q2 respectively are
the charges uniformly spread on the two rings, then
work done in moving a charge q from the centre of one
ring to that of the other is :
(1992; 2M)
(a) zero

(b) q (Q1 Q2 )

2 1 / 2( 4 0 R )

(c) q 2( Q1 / Q2 )/(40 R)
(d) q (Q1 Q2 )
8.

2 + 1 / 2 (4 0 R )

Two point charges + q and q are held fixed at (d,

(a) 1
(c) 3

(b) 2
(d) 4

12. An electron of mass me, initially at rest moves through

a certain distance in a uniform electric field in time t1 .
A proton of mass mp , also, initially at rest, takes time
t2 to move through an equal distance in this uniform
electric field. Neglecting the effect of gravity, the ratio
t2 /t1 is nearly equal to
(1997 1M)
(a) 1
(b) (mp /me)1/2
(c) (me/mp )1/2
(d) 1836
13. A non-conducting ring of radius 0.5 m carries a total
charge of 1.11 1010 C distributed non-uniformly on
250

it circumference producing an electric field E every-

l =0

where in space. The value of the integral

E .dl

l =

(l = 0 being centre of the ring) in volt is :

(1997; 2M)
(a) +2
(b) 1
(c) 2
(d) zero

14. A parallel combination of 0.1M resistor and a 10F

capacitor is connected across a 1.5 V source of negligible resistance. The time required for the capacitor to
get charged upto 0.75V is approximately (in second)
(1997; 2M)
(a) infinite
(b) loge2
(c) log10 2
(d) zero
15. A charge + q is fixed at each of the points x = x0 ,
x = 3x0 , x = 5x0 .... . on the x-axis and a charge q
is fixed at each of the points x = 2x0 , x = 4x0 , x = 6x0
..... . Here x0 is a positive constant. Take the electric
potential at a point due to a charge Q at a distance r
from it to be Q/40 r. Then the potential at the origin
due to the above system of charges is : (1997; 2M)
(a) zero

q
(b) 8 x ln 2
0 0

(c) infinite

q ln 2
(d) 4 x
0 0

(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)

With
With
With
With

S1
S3
S1
S1

C1 = 2pF

19. A parallel plate capacitor of area A, plate separation d

and capacitance C is filled with three difference dielectric
materials having dielectric constant K1, K2 and K3 as
shown. If a single dielectric material is to be used to
achieve the same capacitance C in this capacitor then its
dielectric constant K is given by :
(2000; 2M)

closed,
closed,
and S 2
and S 3

A/2

A/2

k1

k2

d
2

k3

1
1
1
1
(a) K = K + K + 2K
1
2
3

V2 = 20 V
+
S3

2+ 2
(d) + q

A = Area of plates

17. For the circuit shown, which of the following statements is corret
(1999; 2M)
S1

(b)

1+ 2
(c) 2q

1
1
1
(b) K = K + K + 2K
1
2
3

16. Two identical metal plates are given positive charges

Q1 and Q2 (< Q1 ) respectively. If they are now brought
close together to form a parallel plate capacitor with
capacitance C, the potential difference between them
is:
(1999; 2M)
(a) (Q1 + Q2 )/2C
(b) (Q1 + Q2 )/C
(c) (Q1 Q2 )/C
(d) (Q1 Q2 )/2C

V1= 30 V
+

2q

(a)

C2 = 3pF
S2

1
K1 K 2
(c) K = K + K + 2 K3
1
2
K1K 2
K 2K 3
(d) K = K + K + K + K
1
2
2
3
20. Three positive charges of equal value q are placed at
the vertices of an equilateral triangle. The resultant
lines of forces should be sketched as in :
(2001; 1M)

V1 = 15V, V2 = 20V
V1 = V2 = 25V
closed, V1 = V2 = 0
. closed, V1 = 30V, V2 = 20V

18. Three charges Q, + q and + q, are placed at the vertices

of a right angle triangle (isosceles triangle) as shown.
The net electrostatic energy of the configuration is
zero, if Q is equal to :
(2000; 2M)

251

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

21. Consider the situation shown in the figure. The capacitor A has a charge q on it whereas B is uncharged. The
charge appearing on the capacitor B a long time after
the switch is closed is :
(2001; 1M)

q
+
+
+
+
+
A

hexagon such that the electric field at O is double the

electric field when only one positive charge of same
magnitude is placed at R. Which of the following
arrangements of charge is possible for P, Q, R, S, T and
U respectively?
(2004; 1M)
P
Q

(a) zero
(b) q/2
(c) q
(d) 2q
22. A uniform electric field pointing in positive x-direction
exists in a region. Let A be the origin B be the point
on the x-axis at x = + 1 cm and C be the point on the
y-axis at y = + 1cm. Then the potential at the points A,
B and C satisfy :
(2001; 1M)
(a) VA < VB
(b) VA > VB
(c) VA < VC
(d) VA < VC
23. Two equal point charges are fixed at x = a and x =
+ a on the x-axis. Another point charge Q is placed at
the origin. The change in the electrical potential energy of Q, when it is displaced by a small distance x
along the x-axis is approximately proportional to :
(2002; 1M)
(a) x
(b) x2
(c) x3
(d) 1/x
24. Two identical capacitors, have the same capacitance
C. One of them is charged to potential V1 and the other
to V2. The negative ends are also connected, the
decrease in energy of the combined system is :
(2002; 1M)

T
(a) +, , +, , , +
(c) +, +, , +, ,

S
(b) +, , +, , +,
(d) , +, +, , +,

27. Consider the charge configuration and a spherical

Gaussian surface as shown in the figure. When calculating the flux of the electric field over the spherical
surface, the electric field will be due to: (2004; 1M)

+q1

q2

q1
(a) q 2
(c) all the charges

(b) only the positive charge

(d) + q 1 and q 1

28. Three infinitely long charge sheets are placed as shown

in figure. The electric field at point P is :
(2005; 1M)
z

z = 3a
.P
z=0
x
z=a

(a)

1
C(V12 V22 )
4

(b)

1
C(V12 + V22 )
4

(c)

1
C (V1 V2 ) 2
4

(d)

1
C (V1 + V2 ) 2
4

25. A metallic shell has a point charge q kept inside its

cavity. Which one of the following diagram correctly
represents the electric lines of forces? (2003; 1M)

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

26. Six charges, three positive and three negative of equal

magnitude are to be placed at the vertices of a regular

2 $
(a) k
0

2 $
(b) k
0

4 $
(c) k
0

4 $
(d) k
0

29. A long, hollow conducting cylinder is kept coaxially

inside another long, hollow conducting cylinder of
larger radius. Both the cylinders are initially electrically
neutral.
(2007; 3M)
(a) a potential difference appears between the two
cylinders when a charge density is given to the
inner cylinder
(b) a potential difference appears between the two
cylinders when a charge density is given to the
outer cylinder
(c) no potential difference appears between the two
cylinders when a uniform line charge is kept along
the axis of the cylinders
252

(d) no potential difference appears between the two

cylinders when same charge density is given to
both the cylinders

q
(a) The electric field at point O is

8pe 0 R 2

directed

along the negative x-axis

(b) The potential energy of the system is zero
(c) The magnitude of the force between the charges

30. Consider a neutral conducting sphere. A positive point

charge is placed of outside the sphere. The net charge
on the sphere is then :
(2007; 3M)
(a) negative and distributed uniformly over the surface of the sphere
(b) negative and appears only at the point on the
sphere closest to the point charge
(c) negative and distributed non-uniformly over the
entire surface of the sphere
(d) zero
31. A spherical portion has been removed from a solid
sphere having a charge distributed uniformly in its
volume as shown in the figure. The electric field inside
the emptied space is :
(2007; 3M)

q2
at C and B is

54 pe 0 R 2

(d) The potential at point O is

q
12 pe 0 R

34. A parallel plate capacitor C with plates of unit area and

separation d is filled with a liquid of direlectric constant K = 2. The level of liquid is

d
initially. Suppose
3

the liquid level decreases at a constant speed v, the

time constant as a function of time t is (2008; 3M)

(a) zero everywhere

(c) non-uniform

(b) non-zero and uniform

(d) zero only at its centre

32. Positive and negative point charges of equal magni-

a
a

tude are kept at 0,0, and 0,0,

, respectively.
2
2

The work done by the electric field when another

positive point charge is moved from (a, 0, 0) to
(0, a, 0) is :
(2007; 3M)
(a) positive
(b) negative
(c) zero
(d) depends on the path connecting the initial and
final positions

33. Consider a system of three charges

q q
2q
,
and
3 3
3

placed at point A, B and C respectively, as shown in

the fitgure. Take O to be the centre of the circle of
radius R and angle CAB = 60
(2008; 3M)

(a)

6e 0 R
5 d + 3 vt

(b)

(c)

6e 0 R
5 d 3vt

(d)

(15 d + 9vt )e 0 R
2 d 2 3dvt 9 v 2 t 2
(15 d 9vt )e 0 R
2 d 2 + 3 dvt 9 v 2 t 2

35. Three concentric metallic spherical shells of radii R, 2R,

3R, are given charges Q1, Q2, Q3, respectively. It is
found that the surface charge densities on the outer
surfaces of the shells are equal. Then, the ratio of the
charges given to the shells, Q1 : Q2 : Q3, is
(2009; M)
(a) 1 : 2 : 3
(b) 1 : 3 : 5
(c) 1 : 4 : 9
(d) 1 : 8 : 18
36. A disc of radius a/4 having a uniformly distributed
charge 6C is placed in the x-y plane with its centre at
(a/2, 0, 0). A rod of length, 'a' carrying a uniformly
distributed charge 8C is placed on the x-axis from
x = a/4 to x = 5a/4. Two point charges 7C and 3C are
placed at (a/4, a/4, 0) and (3a/4, 3a/4, 0), respectively.
Consider a cubical surface formed by six surfaces
x = a/2, y = a/2, z = a/2. The electric flux through
this cubical surface is
(2009; M)

253

4.

A dielectric slab of thickness d is inserted in a parallel

plate capacitor whose negative plate is at x = 9 and
positive plate is at x = 3d. The slab is equidistant from
the plates. The capactior is given some charge. As x
goes from 0 to 3d :
(1998; 2M)
(a) the magnitude of the electric field remains the
same
(b) the direction of the electric field remains the same
(c) the electric potential increases continuously
(d) the electric potential increases at first, then decrease and again increases

5.

A positively charged thin metal ring of radius R is fixed

in the x-y plane with its centre at the origin O. A
negatively charged particle P is released from rest at
the point (0, 0, z0 ) where z0 > 0. Then the motion of P
is
(1998; 2M)
(a) periodic for all values of z0 satisfying 0 < z0 <
(b) simple harmonic for all values of z0 satisfying 0 <
z0 < R
(c) approximately simple harmonic provided z0 < < R
(d) such that P crosses O and continues to move
along the negative z-axis towards z =

6.

A non-conducting solid sphere of radius R is uniformly charged. The magnitude of the electric field due
to the sphere at a distance r from its centre :
(1998; 2M)
(a) `increases as r increases, for r < R
(b) decreases as r increases, for 0 < r <
(c) decreases as r increases, for R < r <
(d) is discontinuous at r = R

7.

An elliptical cavity is carved within a perfect conductor. A positive charge q is placed at the centre of the
cavity. The points A and B are on the cavity surface
as shown in the figure. Then :
(1999; 3M)
(a) electric field near A in the cavity = elecrtic field
near B in the cavity
(b) charge density at A = charge density at B
(c) potential at A = potential at B
(d) total electric field flux through the surface of the
cavity is q/0 .

2C
(a)
0

2C
(b)
0

10C
(c)
0

12C
(d)
0

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS
More than one options are correct?
1. A parallel plate capacitor is connected to a battery.
The quantitites charge, voltage, electric field and energy associated with this capacitor are given by Q0 ,
V0 , E0 and U0 respectively. A dielectric slab is now
introduced to fill the space between the plates with the
battery still in connection. The corresponding quantities now given as Q, V, E and U are related to the
previous one as :
(1989; 2M)
(a) Q > Q0
(b) V > V0
(c) E > E0
(d) U > U0
2.

3.

A parallel plate capacitor is charged and the charging

battery is then disconnected. If the plates of the
capacitor are moved further apart by means of insulating handles.
(1987; 2M)
(a) the charge on the capacitor increases
(b) the voltage across the plates increases
(c) the capacitance increasees
(d) the electrostatic energy stored in the capacitor
increases
A parallel plate capacitor of plate area A and plate
separation d is charged to a potential difference V and
then the battery is disconnected. A slab of dielectric
constant K is then inserted between the plates of the
capacitor so as to fill the space between the plates. If
Q, E and W denote respectively, the magnitude of
charge on each plate, the electric field between the
plates (after the slab is inserted), and work done on the
system, in the process of inserting the slab, then :
(1999; 3M)

0 AV
(a) Q =
d
(c) E =

V
Kd

0 KAV
(b) Q =
d

A
q

8.

0 AV 2 1
1
(d) W =
2d K

For spherical symmetrical charge distribution, variation

of electric potential with distance from centre is given
in diagram. Given that :

V =
254

q
4 0 R0 for r R0

A +q

q
and V = 4 r for r R0
0
Then which option (s) are correct :

(2006; 5M)

q
O

V
B +q

4.

Three point charge q, 2q and 8q are to be placed on

a 9 cm long straight line. Find the positions where the
charges shold be placed such that the potential energy
of this system is minimum. In this situaion, what is the
electric field at the position of the charge q due to the
other two charges?
(1987; 1M)

5.

Three particles, each of mass 1 g and carrying a charge

q, are suspended from a common point by insulated
massless strings, each 100 cm long. If the particles are
in equilibrium and are located at the corners of an
equilateral triangle of side length 3 cm calculate the
charge q on each particle. (Take g = 10 m/s 2 )
(1988; 5M)

6.

Three concentric spherical metallic shells, A, B and C

of radii a, b and c (a < b < c) have surface charge
densities , and respectively.
(1990; 7M)
(i) Find the potential of the three shells A, B and C.
(ii) If the shells A and C are at the same potential,
obtain the relation between the radii a, b and c.

7.

Two fixed charges 2Q and Q are located at the points

with coordinates ( 3a, 0) and (+ 3a, 0) respectively in
the x-y plane.
(1991; 8M)
(a) Show that all points in the x-y plane where the
electric potential due to the two charges is zero, lie
on a circle. Find its radius and the location of its
centre.
(b) Give the expression V (x) at a general point on the
x-axis and sketch the function V (x) on the whole
x-axis.
(c) If a particle of charge + q starts form rest at the
centre of the circle, show by a short quantitative
argument that the particle eventually crosses the
circle. Find its speed when it does so.

8.

(a) A charge of Q is uniformly distributed over a

spherical volume of radius R. Obtain an expression
for the energy of the system.
(b) What will be the corresponding expression for the
energy needed to completely disassemble the
planet earth against the gravitational pull amongst
its constituent particles?
Assume the earth to be a sphere of uniform mass
density. Calculate this energy, given the product
of the mass and the radius of the earth to be 2.5
1031 kg-m.

r = R0
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
9.

Total charge within 2R0 is q

Total electrostatic energy for r R0 is zero
At r =R0 electric field is discontinuous
There will be no charge anywhere except at r =
R0
Under the influence of the Coulomb field of charge +Q,
a charge - q is moving around it in an elliptical orbit.
Find out the correct statement(s).
(2009; M)
(a) The angular momentum of the charge - q is
constant
(b) The linear momentum of the charge - q is constant
(c) The angular velocity of the charge - q is constant
(d) The linear speed of the charge - q is constant

SUBJECTIVE QUESTIONS
1.

2.

A charge Q is distributed over two concentric hollow

spheres of radii r and R (> r) such that the surface
densities are equal. Find the potential at the common
centre.
(1981; 3M)
The figure shows two identical parallel plate capacitors
connected to a battery with the switch S closed. The
switch is now opened and the free space between the
plates of the capacitors is filled with a dielectric of
dielectric constant (or relative permittivity) 3. Find the
ratio of the total electrostatic energy stored in both
capacitors before and after the introduction of the
dielectric
(1983; 6M)
S

3.

Two fixed, equal, positive charge, each of magnitude

q = 5 105 C are located at points A and B separated
by a distance of 6 m. An equal and opposite charge
moves towards them along the line COD, the perpendicular bisector of the line AB. The moving charge,
when it reaches the pointC at a distance of 4 m from
O as a kinetic energy of 4 J. Calculate the distance of
the farthest point D which the negative charge will
reach before returning towards C.
(1985; 6M)

255

(c) If the same cahrge of Q as in part (a) above is

given to a spherical conductor of the same radius
R, what will be the energy of the system?
(1992; 10M)
9.

Two parallel plate capacitors A and B have the same

spearation d = 8.85 104 m between the plates. The
plate areas of A and B are 0.04 m2 and 0.02m2 respectively. A slab of dielectric constant (relative permittivity) K = 9 has dimensions such that it can exactly fill
the space between the plates of capacitor B.
(1993; 7M)

110 V
(b)
(c)
(a)
(i) The dielectric slab is placed inside A as shown in
figure (a). A is then charged to a potential difference of 110 V. Calculate the capacitance of A and
the energy stored in it.
(ii) The battery is disconnected and then the dielectric slab is removed from A. Find the work done by
the external agency in removing the slab from A.
(iii) The same dielectric slab is now placed inside B,
filling it completely. The two capacitor A and B are
then connected as shown in figure (c). Calculate
the energy stored in the system.

the resulting capacitor.

A
K2
d

K1

13. Two isolated metallic solid spheres of radii R and 2R

are charged such that both of these have charge
density . The spheres are located far away from ach
other and connected by a thin conducting wire. Find
the new charge density on the bigger sphere.
(1996; 3M)
14. Two capacitors A and B with capacities 3 F and 2F
are charged to a potential difference of 100 V and 180
V respectively. The plates of the capacitors are connected as shown in the figure with one wire of each
capacitor free. The upper plate of A is positive and that
of B is negative. An unchanged 2 F capacitor C with
lead wires falls on the free ends to complete the circuit.
Calculate :
(1997; 5M)

3F
A 100 V

10. A circular ring of radius R with uniform positve charge

density per unit length is located in the y-z plane
with its centre at the origin O. A particle of mass m and
positive charge q is projected from the point

(1996; 2M)

C
2F

2F
180 V B

(i) the final charge on the three capacitors and

(ii) the amount of electrostatic energy stored in the
system before and after completion of the circuit.

15. A conducting sphere S 1 and of radius r is attached to

an insulating handle. Another conducting sphere S 2 of
with an initial speed v. Find the smallest (non-zero)
radius R is mounted on an insulating stand S 2 is
value of the speed v such that the particle does not
initially uncharged.
return to P.
(1993; 4M)
S 1 is given a charge Q brought into contact with S 2 and
removed. S 1 is recharged such that the charge on it is
11. Two square metal plates of side 1 m are kept 0.1 m
again Q and it is again brought into contact with S 2
apart like a parallel plate capacitor in air in such a way
and removed. This procedure is repeated n times.
that one of their edges is perpendicular to an oil
(1998; 8M)
surface in a tank filled with an insulating oil. The plates
(a) Find the electrostatic energy of S 2 after n such
are connected to a battery of emf 500 V. The plates are
contacts with S 1.
then lowered vertically into the oil at a speed of
(b) What is the limiting value of this energy as n ?
0.001ms 1 . Calculate the current drawn from the battery
during the process. (Dielectric constant of oil = 11,
16. A non-conducting disc of radius a and uniform posi0 = 8.85 1012 C2 N1 m1 ).
(1994; 6M)
tive surface charge density is placed on the ground
with its axis vertical. A particle of mass m and positive
12. The capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor with plate
charge q is dropped, along the axis of the disc from a
area A and separation d, is C. The space between the
height H with, zero initial velcoity. the particle has q/
plates is filled with two wedges of dielectric constant
m = 40 g/.
(1999; 10M)
K1 and K2 respectively (figure). Find the capacitance of
(a) Find the value of H if the particle just reaches the
disc.

P R 3,0,0 on the positive x-axis directly towards O,

256

(b) Sketch the potential energy of the particle as a

function of its height and find its equilibrium
position.
17. Four point charges + 8 C, 1C, 1C and + 8 C
are fixed at the points

2 7 / 2 m, 3 / 2 m,

+ 3 / 2 m and + 2 7 / 2 m respectively on the y-axis.

A particle of mass 6 104 kg and charge + 0.1C
moves along the x-direction. Its speed at x = + is V0 .
Find the least value of V0 for which the particle will
cross the origin. Find also the kinetic energy of the
particle at the origin. Assume that space is gravity
free. (1/40 = 9 109 Nm2 /C2 ).
(2000; 10M)
18. A small ball of mass 2 103 kg having a charge of 1C
is suspended by a string of length 0.8 m. Another
identical ball having the same charge is kept at the
point of suspension. Determine the minimum horizontal velocity which should be imparted to the lower ball,
so that it can make complete revoltuion.
(2001; 5M)
19. Eight point charges are placed at the corners of a cube
of edge a as shown in figure. Find the work done in
disassembling this system of charges. (2003; 2M)

force experienced by the charge q at this moment.

(2003; 4M)
21. There are two large parallel metallic plates S 1 and S 2
carrying surface charge densities S 1 and S 2 respectively (1 > 2 ) placed at a distance d apart in vacuum.
Find the work done by the electric field in moving a
point charge q a distance a (a < d) from S 1 towards S 2
along a line making an angle /4 with the normal to the
plates.
(2004; 2M)
22. A conducting bubble of radius a, thickness t (t < < a)
has potential V. Now the bubble collapse into a droplet. Find the potential of the droplet.
(2005; 2M)
23. A solid sphere of radius R has a charge Q distributed
in its volume with a charge density

k and a are constants and r is the distance from its

centre. If the electric field at r =

ASSERATION AND REASON

1.
q

+q
+q

+q

1
R
is
times that at
8
2

r = R, find the value of a.

+q

? = kr a , where

20. A positive point charge q is fixed at origin. A dipole

r
with a dipole moment p is placed along the x-axis
r
away from the origin with p pointing along positive

This question contains, statement-I (assertion) and

statement-II (reason).
Statement-I : For practical purposes, the earth is used
as a reference at zero potential in electrical circuits.
(2008; 3M)
Because :
Statement-II : The electrical potential of a sphere of
radius R with charge Q uniformly distributed on the
surface is given by

Q
40 R .

(a) Statement-I is true, statement -II is true, statementII is a correct explanation for statmeent-I
(b) statemen-I is true, statement-II is true; statementII is NOT a correct explanaion for statmeent-I
(c) statement-I is true, statement-II is false
(d) statement-I is false, statement-II is true

x-axis Find : (a) the kinetic energy of the dipole when

it reaches a distance d from the origin, and (b) the

ANSWERS
FILL IN THE BLANKS
1.

0 AV
2 AV
, 0
2. B
d
d

Q2
3. 180,

160 L2

3
4.
V
K +2

5. qEa 6. 8 $i

TRUE/FALSE
1. F

2. T

3.

4. T

257

5. F

6. F

7.

kq12
(Attraction)
L2

OBJECTIVE QUESTION (ONLY ONE OPTION)

1.
9.
17.
25.
33.

(c)
(b)
(d)
(c)
(c)

2.
10.
18.
26.
34.

(b)
(c)
(b)
(d)
(a)

3. (d)
11. (d)
19. (d)
27. (c)
35. (b)

4.
12.
20.
28.
36.

(a)
(b)
(c)
(b)
(a)

5. (a)
13. (a)
21. (a)
29. (a)

6. (a)
14. (d)
22. (b)
30. (d)

7.
15.
23.
31.

(b)
(d)
(b)
(b)

8.
16.
24.
32.

(c)
(d)
(c)
(c)

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (MORE THAN ONE OPTION)

1. (a, d)
8. (a, b, c, d)

2. (b, d)
9. (a)

3.

(a, c, d) 4. (b, c)

5. (a, c)

6. (a, c)

7. (c, d)

SUBJECTIVE QUESTIONS
Q( R + r )

1.

2.

3
5

3. Maximum distance from O = 8.48 m

4 0 ( R + r )
4. (i) Charge q should be at a distance of 3 cm from 2q (ii) Eelctric field = 0
2

5. 3.17 109 C

a2
a 2 b2
V
=
(
a

b
+
c
),
V
=

b
+
c

V
=

+ c (iii) a + b = c
A
B
C
6. (i)
,

0
0 b
0 c
c

Q
Q
2
2
1
1

7. (a) Radius = 4a, Centre = (5a, 0) (b) Vs = 4

for x 3a, Vx = 4

0 3a x 3a + x
0 x 3 a 3a + x

Q2
3 GM 2
3 Q3
22
U
=
U
=

8. (a) U =
(b)
E = 1.5 10 J (c)
80 R
5 R
20 0 R
9. (i) CA = 2 10 9F, UA = 1.21 105 J (ii) W = 4.84 105 J (iii) U = 1.1 105 J
for x > 3a (c) v =

10. vmin =
13.

q
2 0 m

15. (a) Un =

Qq
80 ma

K2
0 A
CK1 K2
in K where C =
d
K2 K1
1

14. (i) q 1 = 90 C, q 2 = 210C, q 3 = 150C (ii) (a) Ui = 47.4mJ (b) Uf = 18 mJ

n
QR R
qn2
Q2 R
=

(b)U =
Here q n
r R+r
80 R

80 r 2

17. (v0 )min = 3m/s, K = 3 104 J

20. (a) KE =

12. CR =

11. i = 4.43 109 A

qp
4 0 d 2

ur
(b) F =

pq
20 d 3

16. (a) H =

18. 5.86 m/s

1 q2
19. W = 5.824 4 a
0

$i

21. W =

ASSERTION AND REASION

1. (b)

258

( 1 2 )qa
20

a
3

1/3

22. V' = V q
3t

23.

a=2

SOLUTIONS
FILL IN THE BLANKS
1.

C=

0 A
d

6.

ur
V $ V $ V $
E =
i+
j+
k
y
z
x
V = 4x2
Therefore,

V
V
V
=0=
= 8 x and
y
z
x

ur
E = 8 x $i
ur
or E at (1m, 0.2m) is 8 i$ V/m
7.

Q1 = c(V 0) =

0 AV
d

is equal to

Q 4 = C ( 0 V ) + C( 0 V )
= 2CV = 2

2.
3.

0 AV
d

dV
is greatest for B.
dr
Due to electrostatic repulsion the charges will move as
farthest as possible and the angle between the two
string will be 180. Tension in each string will be equal
to electrostatic repulsion between the two charges.
Thus,

1.

Electrostatic force is conservative in nature and in

conservative force field work done is path independent.

2.

Mass of negatively charged sphere will be slightly

more than the mass of positively charged sphere
because some electrons will be given to the negatively
charged sphere while some electrons will be taken out
from the positively charged sphere.

3.

When X-rays fall on the metal

ball, some electrons are emited
from it due to photoelectric effect.
The ball thus gets positively
charged and on a positively
charged ball an electrostatic force
in the direction of electric field
acts. due to this force ball gets
deflected in the direction of electric field.

4.

Electric field between the plates of capacitor is almost

uniform. Therefore, force on both the protons will be
identical. It hardly matters whether they are placed
near positive plate or negative plate.

5.

Motion is simple harmonic only when charge q is not

very far from the centre of ring on its axis. Otherwise
motion is periodic but not simple harmonic in nature.

6.

Electric lines force does not represent the path of the

charged particle but tangent to the path at any point
on the line shows the direction of electric force on it

Total charge will remain uncharged.

Hence
Q = Q'
or
3CV = (KC + 2C)'

5.

3
V' =
V
K +2
ur r r
WFe = F.d ( d = displacement)
ur uur
= ( qE$i). rs . rp
= ( qE$i). (a$i b$j

1 q2
q2
9
and
9.0

10
(attraction)
4 0 L2
L2

TRUE FALSE

1 QQ
Q2
=
T = Fe = 4
2
160 L2
0 (2 L )
4.

Force on q due to charges at 1 and 4 are equal and

opposite. Similarly, forces on q due to charges at 2
and 5 are also equal and opposite. Therefore, net force
on q due to charge at 1, 2, 4 and 5 is zero. Only
unbalanced force is between q and + q at 3 which

= qEa

259

and it is not always necessary that motion of the

particle is in the direction of force acting on it.

Cnet =

(10)(1) 10
= F
10 + 1 11

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (ONLY ONE OPTION)

1.

From conservation of mechanical energy

decrease in kinetic energy = increase in potential energy
or

1 F

1 ( Ze)(2e)
= 5 MeV
4 0 rmin

10F

= 5 1.6 1013 J

VC1 = VQ1 + VQ2

7.

+ Ze

+ 2e (Z = 92)

1 Q1
1
Q1
= 4 R + 4
R
2
0
0

rmin

1
2Ze 2
rmin =
4 0 5 1.6 10 13

(9 109 )(2)(92)(1.6 1019 ) 2

2.

3.

Electric potential at any point inside a hollow metallic

sphere is constant. Therefore, if potential at surface is
10 V, potential at centre will also be 10 V.
Motion is simple harmonic only if Q is released from
a point very far from the origin on x-axis. Otherwise
motion is periodic but not simple harmonic.

V = VC1 VC2

Q
4

or

q=

or with sign

q=

( Q1 Q2 )
( Q1 Q2 )
2

(Q1 Q2 )
2(40 R)

21

2 1 / 2(4 R)
0

The diagramatic representation of the given question

is shown in figure.
Eq
y
E

Eq
x

Q
4

correct option is (b).

5.

In such situation potential difference depends only on

the charge on inner sphere. Since, charge on inner
sphere is unchanged. Therefore, potential difference V
will remain unchanged.

6.

In series, C =

C1C2
C1 + C2

1
40 R

W = qV = q (Q1 Q2 )

1 QQ
1
Qq
=
2
4 0 r
4 0 ( r / 2) 2

C2

1
Q
Q2 + 1
4 0 R
2

8.

VC2 =

Similarly,

Since, q is at the centre of two charges Q and Q, net

force on it is zero, whatever the magnitude and sign of
charge on it. For the equilibrium of Q, q should be
negative because other charge q will repel it, so q
should attract it. Simultaneously these attractions and
repulsions should be equal.

R 2

C1

=
4.

Q2

Q1

5 1.6 1013
= 5.3 1014 m = 5.3 10 12 cm
i.e., rmin is of the order of 1012 cm.
correct option is (c).

1
Q
Q1 + 2
4 0 R
2

q
q
( d, 0)
(d, 0)
ur
The electrical field E at all points on the x-axis will not
have the same direcion.
For d x < d, electric field is along positive x-axis
while for all other points it is along negative x-axis.
ur
The electric field E at all points on the y-axis will be
260

parallel to the x-axis (i.e., $i )

(option c)
The electrical potential at the origin due to both the
charges is zero, hence, no work is done in bringing a
test charge from infinity to the oriign.
Dipole moment is directed from the q charge to the

12. Electrostatic force, Fe = eE (for both the particle). But

acceleration of electron, a e = Fe/me and acceleration of
proton, a p = Fe/mp

S=

+ q charge (i.e., $i direction).

9.

13.

Q=4CV
2

Q1

l = 0 uruur

l=

ae

t2
t1 =

Q1 + Q2 = 3CV
Q=CV
1
+

1
1
ae t12 = a p t22
2
2

ap

mp
me

l =0

Edl
. = l = dV = V (centre) V (infinity)

but V (infinity) = 0
l = 0 uruur
Edl
. corresponds to potential at centre of
l=

ring. and V (centre) =

Q2

Q1 Q 2
=
Q 2 = 2Q1
C
2C

(9 109 )(1.11 1010 )

2 volt
0.5

14. Since, the capacitor plates are directly connected to

the battery, it will take no time in charging.

3Q1 = 3CV Q1 = CV Q2 = 2CV

Ef =

1 q
.
40 R

Q1 2 Q2 2
+
2C
4C

C
R

1
4CV 2 3
CV 2 +
= CV 2
2
4
2

10. The magnitude of electric field at a distance r from the

axis is given as E =

15. Potential at origin will be given by

2 0r

V=

q 1 1 + 1 1 x + ....

40 x0 2x0 3 x0 4

q
. 1
40 x0

q ln 2
40 x 0

1 1 1

1 2 + 3 4 + ....

ur ur
ur
16. Electric field within the plates E = EQ1 + EQ2
E

1
r
Here, is the charge per unit length of the capacitor
i.e.,

+Q1

11. Electric field lines never enter a metallic conductor (E

= 0, inside a conductor) and they fall normally on the
surface of a metallic conductor (because whole surface
is at same potential and lines are perpendicular to
equipotential surface).
261

+Q2

E1

E2

E = E1 E2

KK
K2K3
= 1 2 +
K1 + K 2 K 2 + K3

Q1
Q2
= 2A 2 A
0
0

Potential difference between the plates

K1 K 2
K2K3
+
K1 + K 2 K 2 + K 3

20. Electric lines of force never form a closed loop. therefore, options (b) and (d) are wrong. Electric lines of
force emanate from positive charge and terminate on
negative charge, therefore, option (a) is also wrong.

Q1 Q2
d
VA VB = E.d =
2 A0
=

K eq =

Q1 Q2
E = 2 A
0

C = K eqC

Q1 Q2
A
2 0
d

21. Due to attraction with positive charge, the negative

charge on capacitor A will not flow through the switch
S.

Q1 Q2
2C

22. Potential decreases in the direction of electric field.

Dotted lines are equipotential lines.

V A = VC and V A > V B

17. When S 3 is closed, due to attraction with opposite

charge, no flow of charge takes place through S3 .
Therefore, potential difference across capacitor plates
remains unchanged so, V1 = 30 V and V2 = 20 V.

18. Net electrostatic energy of the configuration will be

2+ 2
A
2 = K1 0 A
d
d
2

23.

C2 =

K 3 0 A
d

C3 =

K 2 0 A
d

C4 =

K 3 0 A
d

Ui

A/2
C1

d/2

K1

d/2

K3 C3

0 A
=C
d

Ceq =

C1C2
CC
+ 3 4
C1 + C 2 C3 + C 4

C2

d/2

K4 C4

d/2

K2

x= a x = 0 x = + a x= a x = x x = a
Final position
Initial position

K1 0

19. C1 =

Let

2q

Q =

q.q Q.q Q .q
1
U=
+
+
Here, K =

a
40
2a
a

2KQq
a

and

1
1
+
Uf = KQq
a
+
x
a
x

Here,

K=

1
40

U = Uf Ui
2
|U| = 2KQqx for x < < a
a3
U x2

or

24. U = decrease in potential energy

= Ui Uf

( K1C )( K 2C ) ( K 2C )( K3C )
+
( K1 + K 2 ) C
K2 + K3

262

1
1
V +V
C V12 + V22 = (2C ) 1 2
2
2
2

1
C V1 V2
4

25. Electric field is zero everywhere inside a metal (conductor) i.e., field lines do not enter a metal.
Simltaneously these are perpendicular to a metal surface (equipotential surfaces).

54 pe 0 R 2

0 A
2 A
CC
, C2 = 0 , C = 1 2
d
2d

C1 + C2
vt
+ vt
3
3

34. C1 =

26. According to option (d) the electric field due to P and

S and due to q and T add to zero. While due to U and
R will be added up. Hence, the correct option is (d).

q2

27. At any point over the spherical Gussian surface, net

electric field is the vector sum of electric fields due to
+ q 1 , q 1 and q 2 ,
Hence, the correct option is (c).

2d
+ vt
3

K=2

28. All the three plates will produce electric field at P

along negative z-axis. Hence,

Ceq =

2
$
ur
E p = 2 + 2 + 2 (k )
0
0
0
=

2 $
k
0

Correct answer is (b).

Ceq

29. There will be an electric field between two cylinders

(using Gauss theorem). This electric field will produce
a potential difference.
Answer is (a).

2(0 A) 2
2d
d

+ vt vt

3
3

2(0 A) 2
2d
d

+ vt vt

3
3

=
d
4d

0 A vt +
+ 2vt
3
3

2d
d

+ vt vt

3
3

30. Charge will be induced on the conducting sphere, but

net charge on it will be zero.
Option (d) is correct.

31. Inside the cavity, field at any point is uniform and nonzero.
Therefore, correct option is (b).

= RCeq =

32.

2 0 A
6 0 A
=
5d
5d + 3vt
+ vt
3

A = (a, 0, 0)
B = (0, a, 0)

35.

B Q
z

3
= 3R
2
1

6 0 R
5d + 3vt

Q1 + Q2
4( 2R )

Q1 + Q 2 + Q 3
4(3R ) 2

Q1 + Q2 Q1 + Q 2 + Q3
=
4
9

Q1 : Q2 : Q3 = 1 : 3 : 5
(b)

Q1 +Q2

Q1+ Q2+Q3

Q1
3R

-Q1

2R
-( Q1 +Q2)

(a)

OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS (MORE THAN ONE

OPTION)

(q / 3)(2 q / 3)
( 3R )

A = 1m 2

qencl .
1
2C
36. = = (3C + 2C 7C) =
0
0
0

33. Distance BC = AB sin 60

Fe BC = 4 pe
0

4R

Point charge is moved from A to B

VA = VB = 0
W= 0
or the correct option is (c).

= (2 R )

Q1

Q1 =

2d
+ vt
3

1.

263

When dielectric slab is introduced capacity gets increased while potential difference remains uncharged.

V = V0 , C < C 0
Q = CV

Q > Q0

1
CV 2
2

U > U0

U=

ent points are shown in figure. The direction of the

electric field remains the same. Hence, option (b) is
correct. Simlarly, electric lines always flow from higher
to lower potential, therefore, electric potential increases
continuously as we move from x = 0 to x = 3d.
q

qi
qi

+
+

+
+

+
+

+
E0/k

+
E
E0
x = 0 0 x = d x = 2d
x = 3d

V
but E and d both are unchanged. Therefore, E
D
= E0 Therefore, correct options are (a) and (d).
E=

2 Chargingbatteryisremoved.Thereforeq,= constant
Distance between the plates is increased. Therefore C
decreases

q
, q is constant and C is decreasing.
C
Therefore, V should increase.
Now, V =

Therefore, option (c) is also correct. The variation of

electric field (E) and potential (V) with x will be as
follows :
OA || BC and (Slope)OA > (Slope)AB
Because EOd = E2d3d and EOd > Ed 2d

1 q2
again q is constant and C is decreasing.
2 C
Therefore U should increase.
Correct options are (b) and (d).
U =

3.

Battery is removed. Therefore, charge stored in the

plates will remain constant.

A
Q = CV = 0
d
V = Constant
Now, dielectric slab is inserted. Therefore, C will increase. New capacity will be,
C ' = KC =

V '=

0 KA
d

E
d

2d 3d

Q V
=
C K

Ui =

1
CV 2
2

Fe = qE = Fe = qE

AV 2
= 0
2d

2d

1
Qz0
2
40 ( R + z02 ) 3 / 2

1
Qz0
.
40 (R 2 + z02 )3/ 2

...(1)

Similarly, when it crosses the origin, the force is again

towards centre O.
Thus, the motion of the particle is periodic for all
values of z0 lying between 0 and

2 AV 2
Finally, Uf = 1 C ' V ' 2 = 1 K 0 A V 0
2
2 d K dKd
Work done on the system will be

Secondly, if z0 < < R, R 2 + z02

AV 2 1 1
|U| = 0

2d K
correct options are (a), (c) and (d).
4.

3d

E = 0 at centre of the ring because z0 = 0

Therefore, force on charge P will be towards centre as
shown, and its magnitude is

Potential energy stored in the capacitor,

Initially,

Let Q be the charge on the ring, the negative charge

q is released from point P (0, 0, z0 ). The electric field
at P due to the charged ring will be along positive zaxis and its magnitude will be
E=

V'
V
=
d K .d

X
V0
O

5.

And new electric field

E=

3/2

= R3

1 Qq
Fe = 4 . 3 .z0 (from Eq. 1)
0 R
i.e., the restoring force Fe z0 . Hence, the motion
of the particle will be simple harmonic. (Here negative

The magnitude and direction of electric field at differ264

6.

sign implies that the force is towards its mean position.

i.e., charge on them is distributed in above ratio.

Inside the sphere

r2
R2
Q and q 2 =
Q
or, q 1 = 2
r + R2
r 2 + R2
Potential at centre V = potential due to q 1 + potential
due to q 2 .

1
Q
.
r
40 R 3

E=

E r for r R
i.e., E at centre = 0 (r = 0)

Q
and E at surface =

1 q1
1 q2
V = 4 . r + 4 . R
0
0

or

4 0 R 2

(r = R)

Outside the sphere

E=

Q
40r2

2.

or

(r R)

Before opening the switch potential difference across

both the capacitors is V, as they are in parallel. Hence,
energy stored in them is,

1
3
(3C )V 2 = CV 2
2
2
In case of capacitor B, charge stored in it is q = CV
and its capacity is also 3C. Therefore,

1 Q
4 0 R 2
O

1
r2

r=R

UA =

UB =
7.

8.

9.

Under electrostatic condition, all points lying on the

conductor are at same potential. Therefore, potential at
A = potential at B. Hence, option (c) is correct from
Gauss theorem, total flux through the surface of the
cavity will beq/0 .
The given graph is of charged conducting sphere of
radius R0. The whole charge q distributes on the
surface of the sphere.

Utotal =

3.

Force is always directed toward the centre of +Q,

hence net torque on the charge - q is zero.
r
r
As F 0 so p will change.
Since moment of inertia is changing, will not be
constant.

(a)

q1
4r

3CV 2 CV 2 10
5CV 2
+
= CV 2 =
= U f ...(2)
2
6
6
3

Equating the energy of (q) at C and D :

KC + UC = KD + UD
Here,
KC = 4J

1 ( q)(q )
UC = 2

40 AC
2 9 109 (5 105 ) 2
5
= 9J
=
KD = 0 and

1 ( q)(q )
UD = 2

40 AD

Let q 1 and q 2 be the charges on them.

1 = 2

q2
CV 2
=
2(3C)
6

Ui 3
From Eqs. (1) and (2) U = 5
f

SUBJECTIVE QUESTIONS
1.

4 0 ( r 2 + R 2 )

1
2
UA - UB = CV Utotal = CV2 = U1
...(1)
2
After opening the switch, potential difference across it
is V and its capacity is 3C

r2
This variation of electric field (E) with distance (r) from
the centre will be as follows :

E=

Q( R + r )

q2
4R 2

q1
r2
=
q2
R2

2 9 109 (5 105 )2
AD

=
265

45
AD

Substituting these values in Eq. (1)

F = 2Fe cos 30

45
AD
AD = 9 m

1 q2 3
1 q2 3
= 2
.
= 2
.
2
2
40 a 2
40 a 2

OD =

= 3 1013 q2

4 9 = 0

4.

2
2
AD 2 OA2 = (9) (3) = 8 1 9
= 8.48m

is the angle of string with horizontal in equilibrium

For potential energy to be minimum the bigger charges

shold be farthest. Let x be the distance of q from 2q.
Then potential energy of the system shown in figure
would be :

30
a

=0

x
1
=
9 x
2
or
x = 3cm
i.e., distance of charge q from 2q should be 3 cm.
Electric field at q :

k ( 2q)
(3 10 2 ) 2

k (8q)

13 2
3
3 10 q = (1 10 )(10) cot 89
Solving this equation, we get
q = 0.317 108 C
or
q = 3.17 109 C

or

=0

( 6 10 2 ) 2

6.

5.

(i) Potential at any shell will be due to all three charges.

VA =

1 ( 4a 2 )( ) ( 4b 2 )( ) ( 4 c 2 )( )
+
+

4 0
a
b
c

(a b + c )
0

VB =

F is the resultant of electrostatic force between two

charges.
q

30 q
F
30
Fe

1 qA qB qC
+
+
40 b
b
c

1
4 0

1 qA qB qC
+
+
40 a
b
c

mg

Fe

F
mg
=
sin(90 + )
sin(180 + )

E=

3l 100 3

= 89
Now, the particle is in equilibrium under three concurrent force, F, T and mg. Therefore, applying Lami's
theorem :

8
( 9 x) 2

r (a /2)sec30
=
l
l

d 2
8
+
=0
dx x 9 x
2

a/2

cos =

2
8
+
For U to be minimum
should be minimum.
x 9 x

(2q )( q) (8q)(q) (2q)(8q)

1
U =K
+
+

k =
( 9 x)
9
40
x

...(1)

( 4a 2 )( ) ( 4b 2 )( ) ( 4 c 2 )( )
+
+

a
b
c

a2

b + c
b

Similarly,
266

1 qA qB qC
+
+
40 c
c
c

VC =

V =

In this region potential will be zero only at x +

Thus, we can summarise it is under.
(i) At x = 3a, V = +

1 ( 4a 2 )( ) ( 4b 2 )( ) ( 4 c 2 )( )
=
+
+

4 0
a
b
c

(ii) at x = 3a, V =

a2 b2

+ c

c
c

(ii) Given VA = VC

=
0

7.

(iii) For x < 3a, V =

( a b + c ) ==
0
0

a b+ c=

or

a +b =c

a2 b2

+ c

c

V =

a2 b2

+c
c
c

1
Q

4 0 (3 a x )2 + y 2

1
+
4 0

Potential on x-axis is zero at two places at x = a and

x = 9a. The V-x graph is shown below

2 Q

(3 a + x )2 + y 2

9a

+3a

(c) Potential at centre i.e., at x = 5a will be,

Q 1
2
Q
= positive
=

40 2a 8a 16 0 a
Potential on the circle will be zero.
Since, potential at centre > potential on circumference
on it, the particle will cross the circle because positive
charge moves from higher potential to lower potential.
Speed of particle, while crossing the circle would be,
V =

v=

Q 1
2
V =

4 0 3a x 3a + x for 3a < x < 3a

V = 0 at x = a
V at x 3a
and V + at x 3a
For x > 3a, there is again a point where potential will
become zero so for x > 3a, we can write :

3a

(b) on x-axis potential will be undefined (or say + ) at x

= 3a and x = 3a, because charge Q and 2Q are
placed at these two points. So, between 3a < x < 3a
we can find potential by putting y = 0 in Eq. (1).
Therefore,

2q( V )
m

Qq
80 ma

Here, V is the potential difference between the centre

and circumference of the circle.
8.

Q 1
2

4 0 x 3 a 3a + x for x > 3a

V = 0 at x = 9a
For x < 3a, we can write

Q 1
2

4 0 3a x 3a + x

Q 1
2
(v) For x > 3a, V = 4 x 3 a 3a + x

...(1)
Given V = 0
4 [(3a x)2 + y2 ] = (3a + x2 ) + y2
On, simplifying we get
(x 5a)2 + y2 = (4a)2
This is the equation of a circle of radius 4a and centre
at (5a, 0).

V =

Q 1
2

4 0 3a x 3a + x

(iv) For 3a < x < 3a, expression of V is same i.e.,

(a) Let P (x, y) be a general point on x-y plane. Electric

potential at point P would be,
V = (potential due to Q) + (potential due to 2Q)
or
V =

Q 1
2

4 0 3a x 3a x for x < 3a

(a) In this case the electric field exists from centre of

the sphere to infinity. Potential energy is stored in
electric field with energy density
u=

1
0 E 2
2

(Energy/Volume)

(i) Energy stored within the sphereU(1 )

Electric field at a distance r is

267

1
Q
E = 4 . 3 .r
0 R

U = U1 + U2 =

0 1
Q
1
2
. r
u = 0 E =

3
2
4

0 R
Volume of element, dV = (4r2 ) dV
Energy stored in this volume, dU = U (dV)

dU = (4r dr ) 0
2
2

1
Q
.
r

3
40 R

U1 =

(b) Comparing this with gravitational forces, the gravitational potential energy of earth will be
2

U=

dU = 80 . R6 . r

dr

U1 =

[ ]

Q2
r5
40 0R 6

R
0

R
0

1
Q2
.
400 R

E = |U| =

E=

1
1 Q
0E 2 = 0
.
2
2 4 0 r 2
dV = (4r2 ) dV

u=

dU = 4 dV = (4r 2 dr ) 0
2

2
1 Q
.

2
40 r

1 Q
.
80 r 2

9.

Q2
dr
=
. 2
dU
U2 =
4 0 r
R
0

Q2
U2 =
8 0 R

3
(10m/s 2 ) (2.5 1031 kgm)
5

E = 1.5 1032 J
(c) This is the case of a charged spherical conductor of
radius R, energy of which is given by

3
MgR
5

Substituting the values, we get

1 Q
E = 4 . 2
0 r

gR 2
M

3
MgR
5
Therefore, energy needed to completely disassemble
the earth against gravitational pull amongst its
constitutent particle will be given by

(ii) Energy stored outside the sphere (U2 )

Electric field at a distance r is

dU =

G=

R2

U=

[ ]

Q2
r5
40 0R 6

1 by G.
40

GM

3 GM 2
5 R

by replacing Q2 by M2 and

g=

2 R

3 Q2
U=
20 0 R

or

1 Q2 4
.
.r dr
dU =
80 R 6
R

Q2
Q2
+
400 R 80 R

1 Q2
2 C

1 Q2
2 40 R

or

U=

or

Q2
U=
8 0 R

(i) Capacitor A is a combination of two capacitors CK

and CO in parallel. Hence

K 0 A 0 A
A
+
= ( K + 1) 0
d
d
d
2
Here, A = 0.02m . Substituting the values, we have
CA = CK + CO =

...(2)

CA = (9 + 1)

Therefore, total energy of the system is

268

8.85 1012 (0.02)

(8.85 104 )

CA = 2.0 109 F
Energy stored in capacitor A, when connected with a
110 V battery is

Using the above formula

1
2R

=
VP = 4 .
0
R 2 + 3R 2 40

1
1
CAV 2 = (2 109 )(110)2
2
2
UA = 1.21 105 J
(ii) Charge stored in the capacitor
q A = CA V = (2.0 109 ) (110)
q A = 2.2 107 C
Now, this charge remains constant even after battery
is disconnected. But when the slab is removed, capacitance of A will get reduced. Let it be C A .
UA =

C'A =

1 2R

VO = 4 . R = 2
0
0
VO > VP
Potential difference between points O and P is

V = V O VP = = 2 4 = 4
0
0
0

0 ( 2 A) (8.85 10 12 )(0.04)
=
F
d
8.85 10 4

C'A = 0.4 109 F

Energy stored in this case would be
U 'A =

or

2qV
m

1 (q A )2
2 C 'A

or

2q
4 0 m

1(2.2 107 ) 2
J
2 (0.4 109 )

or

q
2 0 m

U 'A = 6.05 105 J > UA

Therefore, work done to remove the slab would be
W = U' A UA = (6.05 1.21) 105 J
or W = 4.84 105 J
(iii) Capacity of B when filled with dielectric is
CB =

Therefore, minimum value of speed v should be

vmin =

K 0 A ( 9)(8.85 1012 )(0.02)

=
F
d
(8.85 104 )

CB = 1.8 109 F
These two capacitors are in parallel. Therefore, net
capacitance of the system is
C = C'A + CB = (0.4 + 1.8) 109 F
C = 2.2 109 F
Charge stored in the system is q = q A = 2.2 107 C
Therefore, energy stored, U =

U=
or

q
2 0 m

11. Let a be the side of the square plate.

As shown in figure C1 and C2 are in parallel. Therefore,
total capacity of capacitors in the position shown is
C = C1 + C2

1 q2
2 C

a( a x ) 0 ax
+
C= 0
d
d

q = CV =

0 aV
( a x + Kx)
d

As plates are lowered in the oil, C increases or charge

stored will increase.s

dq 0 aV
dx
=
( K t ).
dt
d
dt
Substituting the values
0 = 8.85 1012 C2 N-m3
a = 1m, V = 500 volt, d = 0.01 m, K = 1

1(2.2 107 ) 2
2 (2.2 109 )

Therefore, i =

U = 1.1 105 J

10. Total charge on the ring is Q = (2R)

Potential due to a ring at a distance of x from its centre
on its axis is given by
V (x) =

1 2
mv qV
2

dx
= speed of plate = 0.001 m/s
dt
We get current
and

1
Q
.
4 0 R 2 + x 2

i=

1 Q
and at the centre is Vcentre = 4 . R
0

(8.85 10 12 )1(500)(111)(0.001) A
(0.01)

i = 4.43 109 A
269

12 Let length and breadth of the capacitor be l and b

respectively and d be the distance between the plates
as shown in figure. Then, consider a strip at a distance
x of width dx.
Now,
QR = x tan
and PQ = d x tan where tan = d/l]
Capacitance of PQ

K1 0 (bdx ) K10 ( bdx)

=
xd
C1 = d x tan
d
l

13. Let q 1 and q 2 be the charges on the two spheres

before connecting them.
Then
q 1 = (4R2 ), and
q 2 = (4) (2R)2 = 16R2
Therefore, total charge (q) on both the spheres is
q = q 1 + q 2 = 20R2
Now, after connecting, the charge is distributed in the
ratio of their capacities, which in turn depends on the
ratio of their radii (C = 40 R)

q '1
R 1
=
q '2 = 2R 2

K10 bldx K10 A( dx)

C1 = d (l x ) = d (l x )

q1' =

q 20
=
R 2
3 3

and

q1' =

2q 40
=
R 2
3
3

and C2 = capacitance of QR

K10 b(d x )
x tan

Therefore, surface charge densities on the spheres are:

K10 A(d x )
d
C2 =
(tan = )
xd
l
Now, C1 and C2 are in series. Therefore, their resultant
capacity C0 will be given by

1 =

1
1
1
+
C0 = C1 C2
=

d (1 x)
x.d
+
K1 0 A( dx) K 2 0 A( dx)

lx
d
x
1
+

=
0 A(d x) K1 K2
C0
=

d{K 2 (1 x) K1x}
0 AK K2 ( dx)
1

0 AK1K 2
C0 = d{K (1 x ) + K x} dx
2
1

0 AK1 K 2
C0 = d{K l + ( K K ) x} dx
2
1
2
Now, q the net capacitance of the given parallel plate
capacitor is obtained by adding such infinitesimal
capacitors placed parallel from x = 0 to x = l
i..e, CR =

x =l

x= 0

C0 = 0

(20/3)R 2
4R

(40/3)R 2

6
16R
4 (2 R)
Hence, surface charge density on the bigger sphere is
2 i.e., (5/6).
q2 '

14. (i) Charge on capacitor A, before joining with an

uncharged capacitor
q A = CV = (100) (3)C = 300C
Similarly, charge on capacitor B
q B = (180) (2) c
= 360 C
Let q 1 , q 2 and q 3 be the charges on the three cpacitors
after joining them as shown in figure alongside (q 1 , q 2
and q 3 are in microcoulombs)
Form conservation of charge
Net charge on plates 2 and 3 before joining
= net charge after joining

300 = q 1 + q 2
...(1)
Similarly, net charge on plates 4 and 5 before joining
= net charge after joining
360 = q 2 q 3
or
360 = q 2 + q 3
...(2)
Applying Kirchhoff's second law in closed loop ABCDA

q1 q2 q3

+
=0
3
3
2
or 2q 1 3q 2 + 3q 2 = 0
...(3)
Solving Eqs. (1), (2) and (3), we get
q 1 = 90 C
q 2 = 210 C
and
q 3 = 150 C
Therefore, final charges on the three capacitors are as
shown below

0 AK1 K 2
dx
d{K 2l + ( K1 K2 ) x}

K1 K2 0 A
K2
Finally we get CR = ( K K ) d ln K
2
1
1
CK1 K2
K2
0 A
= K K in K where C =
d
2
1
1

4R

and 2 =

1
1
1
+
C0 = C1 C2
Then,

q1 '

270

(ii) (a) Electrostatic energy stored before, completing

the circuit
U1 =

2
n
R
R
R
qn = Q
+
+
....
+

R + r R + r
R + r

1
1
(3 106 )(100) 2 + (2 106 )(180)2
2
2

2
U = 2 CV

or q n = Q

= 4.74 102 J
or Ui = 47.4 mJ
(b) Electrostatic energy stored after, completing the
circuit
Ui =

q2
Un = n
2C

1q2
U =

2C

= 1.8 102 J
or Uf = 18 mJ
or

15. Capacities of conducting spheres are in the ratio of

their radii. Let C1 and C2 be the capacities of S 1 and
S 2 , then

Un =

qn2
2(4 0 R )
qn2
8 0 R

where q n can be written from Eq. (2).

(b) q n =

C2
R
C1 = r
(a) Charges are distributed in the ratio of their capacities. Let in the first contact, charge acquired by S 2 , is
q 1 . Therefore, charge on S 1 will be Q q 1 . Say it is q'1

..(1)

Therfore, electrostatic energy of S 2 after n such contacts

6 2

1 (150 106 ) 2
+
2 (2 106 )

a (1 r n )
Sn =

(1 r )

1(90 10 )
1(210 10 )
+
6
2 (3 10 )
2 (2 106 )
6 2

R R
1

r R+ r

QR
R
R
1 +
+ ....+ ... +

R+ r R+ r
R+r

n 1

as n

QR
1
q =

R
R+ r
1
R+r

q1
q1
C2 R
=
=
=
q1 ' Q q1
C1 r

= QR R + r = Q R
R + r r
r

It impleis that Q charge is to be distributed in S2 and

S1 in the ratio of R/r.

S = 1 r

R
q1 = Q
...(1)

R+r
In the second contact S 1 again acquires the same
charge Q.
Therefore, total charge in S 1 and S 2 will be

Q2 R 2 / r 2
q2
=
80 R
2C
Q2 R

Q + q1 = Q 1 +
R
+ r

This charge is again distributed in the same ratio.

Therefore, cahrge on S 2 in second contact.

or

U =

80 r 2

16. Potential at a height H on the axis of the disc V (P)

: The charge dq contained in the ring shown in figure.

2
R
R R
R

+
q2 = Q 1 +
=Q

R + r R + r
R + r R + r

P (q, m)

Similarly,

2
3
R
R R
+
q3 = Q
+

R + r R + r R + r

dr

r
a

dq = (2r dr)
271

Potential of p due to this ring

dV =

static potential energy + gravitational potential energy

U = qV + mgH
Here V = potential at height H

dq
1
.
where x = H 2 + r 2
40 x

U =

1
rdr
dV =
. (2rdr ) =
40
2
2
2

0 H 2 + r2
H +r
Potential due to the complete disc
VP =

VP =

dU
=0
dH
differentiating Eq. (2) w.r.t. H
F=

r =0 dV
r =a

rdr

r =0

H +r

2
a + H2 H

20

a
VO = 2
0

or 1 +

(a) Particle is released from P and it just reaches point O.

Therefore, from conservation of mechancial energy
Decrease in gravitational potential energy = increase in
electrostatic potential energy
(KE = 0 becauseKi = Kf = 0)

mgH = q [VO VP ]

or
or

...(1)

or
or

H=

a2 + H 2

2mga
3mga

H
+ aH
2

H=

3 2
H = aH
4
and

4
a and H = 0
3

H = (4/3)a
(b) Potential energy of the particle at height H = Electroor

1
4
a +H
2
3H = a 2
2

a2 + H 2 ]

H
= a+
2

2
a 2 + H2 = a +

H2

U = mg (2 a2 + H 2 H)
(Parabolic variation)
U = 2mga at H = 0

H
= (a + H )
2
a +H

=1

a2 + H 2

3
From Eq. (2), we can write
U H equation as

gH = 2g [a + H

or

2 = 0

Substituting Eq. (1), we get

a +H2

or

q
20 m = 2g

2H
2

2H
or

q
40 g
=
m

or

1
(2 H )
1 = 0
2
a 2 + H 2

H
1 = 0
mg + 2mg 2
a + H 2

H= 0

q
2
2

or gH =
a a + H + H
m
2

q
20

or mg +

Potential at centre, (O) will be

...(2)

At equilibrium position

r =a

2 0

q
[ a2 + H 2 H ]+ mgH
2 0

H=

U = Umin =

3
3 mga at H =

Therefore, U-H graph will be as shown

Note that at H =
272

a
3

, U is minimum

a
3

Therefore, H =

is stable equilibrium position

This equation gives x = 5 m

2
The least value of kinetic energy of the particle at
infinity should be enough to take the particle upto x

17. Inthefigureq = 1C = 106 , q 0 = + 0.1C = 107 C and

m = 6 104 kg and Q = 8 C = 8 106 C
y
+ 27 / 2 B

+Q

+ 3 / 2 A
O
3 / 2 C

V0

x
q

27 / 2 D

5
5
m because at x = +
m
2
2
E=0
Electrostatic force on cahrge q is zero or Fe = 0
=+

m
q0

+Q

Let P be any point at a distance x from origin O. Then

For at x >

3
+ x2
2

AP = CP =

27
+ x2
2
Electric potential at point P will be

Now, from Eq. (1) potential at x =

8 106
106

V = 2 9 10
27
3
2
2
+x
2 +x
2

V = 2.7 104 volt

Applying energy conservation at x = and x =

3
2
+x
2

...(1)

1 2
mv0 = q 0 V
2

Electric field at P is

3/2
1 27
dV

= 1.8 104 (8) + x 2

dX
2 2

1 3
2
+ x
2 2

3/2

27

+ x2

v0 =

3/2

(2x)

3/2

27
2
+x
2

...(2)

2q0V
m

2 107 2.7 104

6 104

v0 = 3m/s
Minimum value of v0 is 3m/s
From Eq. (1), potential at origin (x = 0) is

V0 = 1.8 104

27
3
2
2

3/2

3
2
+x
2

(4) 3 / 2

v0 =

5
m
2

Substituting the values

E = 0 on x-axis where x = 0 or

5
m
2

8
1

V = 1.8 104

27 5
3 5
+
2 +2
2 2

E=

5
m, E is attractive (towards
2

negative x-axis)

1
2KQ 2 Kq
9

where K = 4 = 9 10 Nm2 /C2

BP
AP
0

8
4

V = 1.8 10
27
2
2 +x

5
m, E is repulsive (towards positive x2

axis) and for x <

BP = DP =

V =

27
3
2
2
2 + x = 4 + x

= 2.4 104 V
Let K be the kinetic energy of the particle at origin.
Aplying energy conservation at x = 0 and at x =

3/2

3
2
+x
2

273

K + q 0 V0 =
But

1 2
mv0
2

1
m (u 2 v2 )
2
or
u 2 = v2 + 4gl
Substituting the value of v2 from Eq. (1) we get
u 2 = 2.4 + 4 (10) (0.8) = 34.4m2 /s 2

u = 5.86 m/s
Therefore, minimum horizontal velocity imparted to the
lower ball, so that it can make complete revolution, is
5.86 m/s
or

1 2
mv0 = q 0 V [from Eq. (2)]
2
K = q 0 (V V0 )
K = (107 ) (2.7 104 2.4 104 )
K = 3 104 J

5
m
2
of these x = 0 is stable equilibrium position and

Note : E = 0 or Fe on q0 is zeor at x = 0 and x x =

x =

19. For potential energy of the system of charges, total

number of charge pairs will be 8 C2 or 28 of these 28
pairs 12 unlike charges are at a separation a, 12 like
charges are at separation

5
is Unstable equilibrium postion.
2

are at separation

U =

v2

or

So, work done by external force in disassembling, this

system of charges is

1 q2
W = 5.824
.
40 a

(outwards)

mv 2
= W Fe
l

20. Applying energy conservation principle, increase is

kinetic energy of the dipole = decrease in electrostatic
potential energy of the dipole.
Kinetic energy of dipole at distance d from origin
= Ui Uf
r ur
r ur
or KE = 0 ( p . E ) = p . E

1 q $
qp
= ( p$i).
i =
2
2
4

0 d
4 0 d

1
1 q2
=
mg

m
40 l 2

9.0 109 (106 ) 2

2 10 3 1 0
m2 /s 2
v2 =

(18) 2
2 103

or
v2 = 2.4m2 /s 2
...(1)
Now, the electrostatic potential energy at the lowest
and highest points are equal. Hence, from conservation of mechanical energy
Increase in grvaitational potential energy = Decrease
in kinetic energy,

1 (12)( q)(q) (12)(q )( q) (4)( q) ( q)

+
+

4 0
a
2a
3a

1 q2
|U| = 5.824

40 a

u
At highest point three forces are acting on the particle.
(i) Electrostatic repulsion

(ii) weight W = mg
(inwards)
(iii) Tension T'
(inwards)
T = 0, if the particle has just to complete the circle and
the necessary centripetal force provided by W Fe i.e.,

3 a. Therefore, the potential energy

1 q2
= 5.824
.
40 a

The binding energy of this system is therefore,

T=0
mq
l
q

1
q2
=
Fe =
4 0 l2

2 a and 4 unlike charges

of the system

18. Given : q = 1C = 106 C

m = 8 103 kg and l = 0.8 m
Let u be the speed of the particle at its lowest point
and v its speed at high point.
Fe

mg (2l) =

(b) Electric field at origin due to the dipole,

ur
E=

0.8

r
1 2 p $ ur
i ( E axis p )
4 0 d 3

Force on charge q

ur
ur
F = qE=

pq
20 d 3

$i

21. Electric field near a large metallic plate is given by E

= /0 . In between the plates the two fields will be in
274

opposite direction. Hence,

Enet

( K )

1 2
= E0 (say)
=
0

V' =

Now, W = (q) (potential difference)

= q (E0 a cos 45)

1/3

(1 2 )qa
2 0

r a +3
= 4pk

a + 3

Kq
1
V=
(Here K =
)
a
40

R/2

4pr drkr
2

R/2

qencl
=

R

2

4 3
R
3
R = (3a 2 t)1/3

4pk R
=

a +3 2

a +3

4pk
q
1 qencl
( R ) a+ 3 ; encl 2 =
;
a +3
8 4pe0 R 2
4pe 0r

a +3

4
1 R a +3
=
2
8 R2
R

2 a+ 3 = 32
a +3=5
a = 2

(4a 2 )t =

Kq
R

At r = R

Va

q=
K
Let after collapsing the radius of droplet becomes R,
then equating the volume, we have

Now, potential of droplet will be V' =

R
; qencl =
2

23. At r =

22. Let q be the charge on the bubble, then

(3a2 t )1 / 3

a
V' = V
3t

or

2 a
= ( q) 1

0 2
=

Va

ASSERTION AND REASION

1. No solution is required.

275