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CH-2 Electrostatic Potential And Capacitance

Type of
questions

Derivations
(Question no
& topic)

Definition
or fact
based

Unit &
dimensions

Graphical
&
diagrams

Co- relation
based
conceptual

Application
based
conceptual

Numerical
(formula based)

Numerical
(HOTS)

Value
based

No. of
questions
Questions
(Sheet no):

12

14

22

27

1: Q 7,8,9
2:Q
6,8,10,11,13
3: Q 10-13
4:Q 10,12
5:Q
4,5,6,10,11
6:Q 6,8,9

1: Q 10-14
2:Q 12, 13,15,16
3:Q 14,15
4:Q 9,11,13,14
5:Q7,8,9,12,13,14
6: Q 10,11,14-18

1: Q 3(Topic
7),4(Topic 8)
2: Topic 1
3: Q 1 (Topic
1)
4:Topic 3, Q
4 (Topic 6),5
(Topic 10),6
(Topic 11)
5:Q 1 (Topic
2),2(Topic 6)
6:Q 2,
4(Topic 1,2)

1: Q 2,6,7
2: Q 1,2,5
3: Q 3-7,9
4:Q 1
6:Q 1

1: Q1
4:Q 2

1: Q 5
2: Q 3,4,9
5: Q3

2: Q 7
3:Q 8
4:Q 3,7,8
6:Q 3,5

1: Q15
5: Q18
6:Q12,13

3: Q2

Session 1:

1. Potential Energy: Energy stored inside a system by virtue of its configuration is known as potential energy. In an
electrostatic system of charge, when work is done against repulsive electrostatic forces (which are conservative
forces) by displacing a charge, energy equivalent to work done against repulsive forces is stored inside the
system which is known as electrostatic potential energy. It is denoted by U. SI unit Joule, dimensions-

L2T-2].
Features of electrostatic potential energy:
1. It is independent of path followed.(known as state function) This is the fundamental property of a
conservative force
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2
2. Its value at infinity is considered zero.
3. Concept of U is more useful than value of potential energy at a point as U is equal to work done in
moving test charge.
2. Expression of Electrostatic Potential Energy:

The graph for potential energy for a system of two

charges v/s distance is given beside.

3. Electrostatic Potential: Electric potential at a point in an electric field is the amount of work done in moving a
unit positive charge from infinity to that point against electrostatic forces. SI unit is volt. Its dimensions are
[ML2T-3A-1]. It is a scalar quantity.
We can write it as, V = . Thus, electric potential can also be defined as potential energy per unit charge.

4. Electric potential due to a single charge:

Consider a positive point charge q at origin O. We have to calculate its electric potential at point P which is at a
distance from O. By definition, electric potential at P is equal to the work done in bringing a unit positive
charge from infinity to point P.
Consider a test charge q placed at point A at a distance x from O. By Coulombs law, force acting on charge q
is, F =

. This force acts away from the charge.

Now, small work done in moving this test charge from A to B through a small displacement against the force is
=
=F
cos 180
=
[since cos 180 = -1]
So, total work done in moving q from infinity to point P is given by,
=
= -
= -
=

=
=

[all the constants taken out of integral]

[since

]
.. (1)

So, electric potential at point P is,

Therefore,

Electric potential due to a point charge is spherically symmetric as it depends only on the distance of the
observation point from the charge and not on
direction. Potential at infinity is zero.
The electric potential energy U and the electric
potential V are not the same. The electric
potential energy is associated with a test charge,
while electric potential is the property of the
electric field and does not depend on the test
charge.
Electric potential is a characteristic feature of a
point charge whereas potential energy is a feature
of system of two charges.

4
The graph for potential and electric field v/s r is given beside.
5. Electric potential at any general point due to a dipole:

Special Cases for potential due to dipole:

(i) For axial point P, =00 or 1800, V=

, i.e. the potential has greatest positive or negative

value.
(ii) For equatorial point P, =900, then V=0 (cos 900 = 0). This is an example where electric field is nonzero and electric potential is zero.
6. Differences between electric potential due to a dipole and a single charge:
Electric potential due to single charge
1. Spherically symmetric and at large
distances, falls off as 1/r.

1.

Electric potential due to dipole

At large distances, falls off as 1/r2.

7. Electric potential due to a system of charges: Let there be N

point charges q1, q2, q3, , qN at distances r1, r2, r3,., rn. Thus,
potential of system of charges is V=

8. Graph of variation of potential with distance from positive

charge to negative charge of a dipole, with mid-point as origin
is given beside.
9. Numerical Tools:
1. To find point at which electric potential is zero due to two charges, there are 2 points. One is between the
charges and the other one is outside the two charges along the axial line.
2. When n particles of radius r and charge q coalesce to form a bigger drop, then the radius of bigger drop is
R=n1/3r and charge on that drop will be Q=nq.
3. When a body is moved against an electric field, then the work done in moving a charge q is equal to
qV=qEr, where r is the distance between the two points.

5
4. Angle between two sides for a regular polygon is equal to 1800(n-2)/n, where n is the number of sides of
polygon.

Homework Sheet 1
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

7.
8.

9.
10.

11.

Define electric potential at a point due to a point charge? Give SI unit and dimensions of electric potential.
Distinguish between electric potential and potential energy and write the relation between them.
Derive an expression for electric potential at a distance r from a charge q.
Derive an expression for electric potential due to a dipole at a general point. Also state special cases. How does it
differ from electric potential due to a single charge?
Show graphically the difference between variation of E v/s r and V v/s r due to point charge. [Delhi 2012,
Compartment 2012, All India 2012,Foreign 2011]
A point charge Q is placed at point O as shown in fig. Is the potential
difference VA-VB positive, negative or zero, if Q is (i) positive, (ii)
negative?
[Delhi 2011]
What is the work done by the field of a nucleus in a complete circular orbit of electron? What if the orbit is elliptical?
Calculate the potential at a point P due to a charge of 4 10-7 C located 9 cm away. Hence obtain the work done in
bringing a charge of 2 10-9 C from infinity to the point P. Does the answer depend on the path along which the
charge is brought?
[Udgam]
Ans.4104V, 810-5 J.
Two charges 3 10-8C and 2 10-8 C are located 15cm apart. At what point(s) on the line joining the two charges is
the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity to be zero.
Ans. 9cm, 45cm.
*A regular hexagon of side 10 cm has a charge of 5C at each of its vertices. Calculate the potential at the centre of
the hexagon.
Ans. 2.7106V.
*27 charged water droplets each with a diameter of 2mm and a charge of 10-12C coalesce to form a single drop.
Calculate the potential of the bigger drop.
Ans. 81V.

Session 2:
1. Relation between electric field and potential:

i.

The quantity

is the rate of change of potential with distance and is called potential gradient. Thus

the electric field at any point is equal to the negative of the potential gradient at that point.
ii.
The negative sign shows that the direction of the electric field is in the direction of decreasing potential.
Using the above result we can determine the electric potential at a point if electric field is known.
From the above equation we get dV= - .dr. On integrating both the sides, we get V ( ) = -

6
Also from the above equation, we get units of Electric field as Vm-1. Thus, we get units of Electric field.
This means that, 1Vm-1=1NC -1.
2. Electric potential due to a uniformly charged thin spherical shell: Consider a uniformly charged spherical shell
of radius R and carrying charge q. To calculate its potential at point P at distance r from its centre O, we will
consider the following cases:
1. When point P lies outside the shell: We know for a uniformly
charged spherical shell, electric field outside the shell is as if
entire charge is concentrated at the centre. Hence electric
potential is given by, V =

2. When point P lies inside the shell or on the shell: The electric
field at any point inside the shell is zero. Hence electric potential due to a uniformly charged spherical shell
is constant everywhere inside the shell and its value is equal to that on the surface. Thus, V =

3. Equipotential Surface: Any surface that has same electric potential at every point on it is called an equipotential
surface. By joining points of constant potential, we can draw equipotential surfaces throughout the region in
which electric field exists.
Properties of equipotential surfaces:
1. No work is done in moving a test charge over an equipotential surface. Since potential difference between
two points is zero on an equipotential surface, hence work done is zero.
2. Electric field is always normal to the equipotential surface at every point. If
the field were not normal to the equipotential surface, it would have a nonzero component along the surface. So to move a test charge against this
component, work would have to be done. But since work done is zero on an
equipotential surface as discussed in previous point, hence the electric field
must be normal to the equipotential surface at every point.
3. Equipotential surfaces are closer in regions of strong electric field and
farther apart in regions of weak field. From potential gradient equation, we know that E= . For constant value of dV, such as in equipotential surface, dr

. Hence, dr= -

. Hence, the spacing between

equipotential surfaces will be smaller in stronger electric field and vice versa.
4. No two equipotential surfaces can intersect each other. If they intersect, then there will be two values of
electric potential at the point of intersection, which is impossible.
4. Equipotential surfaces for the following type of charges:
1. Point Charge:
2. Two equal and opposite charges (Electric dipole):
They are
close
together in
the region
between the
two charges.

7
3. Two equal
positive
charges:
Equipotential
surfaces are far
apart in regions
between the
two charges
indicating a weak field in such regions.

4. For a
uniform
electric
field:
Electric
field lines
are
parallel
straight
lines and equipotential surfaces are equidistant
parallel planes perpendicular to lines of forces.

5. For non-uniform electric field:

6. For Parallel Plate Capacitor:

5. Important points to solve numerical:

i.
As given in the figure, potential increases
in moving inwards for a positive charge
since V (1/r) and vice-versa happens for
negative charge.
ii.
To find out the work done in moving a
negative charge, work done will be of
opposite sign of the potential difference
between those two points and for a positive charge it will be of same sign as that of potential difference.
iii.
When a positive charge moves in direction of electric field, it accelerates, and hence its kinetic energy
increases whereas in case of negative charge it decreases. Hence, potential energy decreases in case of
+ve charge and vice-versa for ve charge.
iv.
To calculate potential energy due to a system of particles, we need to sum up the potential energy of
each possible pair of particles, such that each particle is coming one by one.
v.
When the potential due to electric field varies with distance, then to find force exerted on a charge
present at a point, we have to find electric field at that point by differentiating with x and substituting
the value of x. Then multiplying electric field with charge, we get the value of force.
vi.
If a charged particle of mass m and having charge q is accelerated through a potential difference V, then
it:
a. It gains kinetic energy, mv2 =qV
b. It acquires a velocity, v=

8
6. Potential energy of a system of particles: The expression for the potential energy of N point charges q1, q2,,
qN can be written as U =

+, where

is the distance between q1 and q2,

between q2

and q3 and so on.

7. Potential energy in an external field: (i) Potential energy of a system of two point charges in an electric field:
Let V1 and V2 be electric potentials of the field at the points where q1 and q2 are located. Then potential
energy of the two charges in the electric field is, U = P.E. due to q1 and + P.E. due to q2 and + P.E. due to
q1 and q2
Thus, U = q1V1 + q2V2 +

Units of electrostatic potential energy: When an electron (q=1.610-19C) is moved through a potential
difference of 1volt, then the change in its P.E. would be U= q V = 1.610-19C 1V= 1.610-19J=1eV.
Thus, electron volt is the potential energy gained or lost by an electron in moving through a potential difference
of 1V.

Homework Sheet 2
1. Can two equipotential surfaces intersect? Give reason.
[KV, Prakash]
2. Electric potential gradient is numerically equal to which quantity?
3. Draw schematically the equipotential surfaces corresponding to a field that uniformly increases in magnitude
but remain constant in direction.
[All India 2008, 2010, Foreign 2013, KVV].
4. Write the expression for the electric potential due to a uniformly charged shell at a point (i)Outside the shell, (ii) On
the shell, (iii)Inside the shell and also give graph for the same.
[Prakash 2013]
5. A hollow metal sphere of radius 5cm is charged such that the potential on its surface is 10V. What is the potential at
the centre of the sphere? [All India 2011, DPS 2013]
6. A metal sphere 0.30m in radius is positively charged with 2C. Find the potential at (a) 1m from the centre of the
sphere, (b) the centre of the sphere.
[Prakash]
Ans.18103V, 6104V.
7. Two charges 2C and -2C are placed at points A and B 5cm apart. Depict equipotential surfaces of the system.
Why do equipotential surfaces get closer to each other near the point charges? [KVS 2014, Compartment 2013]
8. *Why it is necessary that the field lines from a point charge placed in the vicinity of a conductor must be normal
to the surface of the conductor at every point?
[All India 2009]
9. A test charge q is moved without acceleration from A to C along the path from A
to B and then from B to C in electric field E as shown in fig. (i) Calculate the
potential difference between A and C. (ii) At which point (of the two) is the
electric potential more and why? [All India 2012, DPS 2013]
10. Deduce the expression for the potential energy of a system of two point
charges q1 and q2 brought from infinity to the points and respectively in the presence of external electric
field . [Delhi 2010]

11. *An electron and proton are brought nearer to each other. Will the potential energy increase or decrease? Give
reason.
[DPS 2013]
12. *Two uniformly large parallel thin plates having charge densities + and are kept
in X-Z plane at a distanced apart. Sketch an equipotential surface due to electric
field between the plates.
[Delhi 2011]
13. The two graphs show the variation of electrostatic potential (V) with 1/r (where r
being the distance between the field point from the point charge) for two point

9
charges q1 and q2. (a)What are the signs of the two charges? (b) Which of the two charges have larger
magnitude and why?
[DPS 2014]
14. *Figures (a) and (b) show field lines of a positive and negative point charge respectively. (a) Give the signs of
the potential difference V p VQ, VA-VB.
(b) Give the sign of the potential energy difference of a small
negative charge between the points Q and P; A and B.
(c) Give the sign of work done by the field in moving a small positive
charge from Q to P.
(d) Give the sign of work done by the external agency in moving a
small negative charge from B to A.
(e) Does the kinetic energy of a small negative charge increase or
decrease in going from B to A?
15. Four charges +q, -q, +q and q are arranged at the corners of a square ABCD of side d respectively.
(a) Find the work required to put together this arrangement.
Ans.-kq2 (4-2)/d.
(b) A charge q0 is brought to the centre E of the square, the four charges being held fixed at its corners. How
much extra work is needed to do this?
Ans. Zero.
16. (a) Determine the electrostatic potential energy of a system consisting of two charges 7 C and 2 C (and with
no external field) placed at (9 cm, 0, 0) and (9 cm, 0, 0)
respectively.
Ans. -0.7J
(b) How much work is required to separate the two charges
infinitely away from each other? Ans. 0.7J
(c) Suppose that the same system of charges is now placed in an
external electric field E = A (1/r 2); A = 9 105 C m-2. What would
the electrostatic energy of the configuration be? Ans.49.3J
[DPS 2013]
17. Four point charges are placed at the four corners of a square in two ways i) and ii) as shown. Will the i) electric
field ii) electric potential, at the centre of the square, be the same or different in the two configuration and why?

18. *In a system, two equal and opposite charges q and -q are separated by a distance 2r. A charge +Q is placed at
the centre of line joining them. The total potential energy of the energy of the system is zero. Calculate the ratio
of q/Q.
[DPS 2011-12]
Ans. 2:1.
19. *The electric potential V(x) in a region along the X-axis varies with the distance x (in meter) according to the
relation V(x) = 4x2. Calculate the force experienced by a 1C charge placed at point x=1m. Ans. -810-6N.

10
Session 3:
1. Potential Energy of a dipole in Electric field:

Special Cases:
i.
Stable equilibrium: When =00, then U= -pE, i.e., potential energy of a dipole is minimum. Hence,
stable equilibrium.
ii.
Unstable equilibrium: When =1800, then U=pE, i.e., potential energy of a dipole is maximum.
Hence, unstable equilibrium.
iii.

When =900, then U=0, which means that work done in moving an electric dipole from infinity to
electric field in direction perpendicular to it is zero.

iv.

When is changed from 00 to 1800, then change in potential energy is U=-pE pE = -2pE.

2. Conductors: Conductors are the substances which allow large scale physical movement of electric charges
through them when an external electric field is applied. E.g. Metals, human body, alkalis, etc.
3. Insulators: These are those substances which do not allow physical movement of electric charges through them
when an external electric field is applied. Eg. Wood, mica, glass, diamond, etc.
4. Electrostatic properties of conductors:
1. Net electrostatic field in the interior of a conductor is zero. Whenever a conductor is placed in an external
electric field, an equal and opposite in direction electric field is induced inside the conductor, making the net
electric field inside the conductor zero.
2. Electric field is normal to the surface of the conductor as discussed previously in topic 2 of session 2.
3. The net charge in the interior of the conductor is zero and any excess charge resides at its surface. Since
electric field inside a conductor is zero, hence no flux passes through conductor. This implies that net charge
inside is zero (from Gausss theorem).
4. Potential is constant within and on the surface of a conductor. Since, there is no electric field within the
surface and E = -

. Hence, when E is zero, V is constant.

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5. Electric field at the surface of a charged conductor is proportional to the surface charge density.

6. Electric field is zero in the cavity of a hollow charged conductor.

Consider a charged conductor having a cavity, with no charges
inside the cavity. For a Gaussian surface just inside the conductor,
E=0 since electric field is zero inside a conductor. Thus, by Gausss
theorem, charge enclosed by Gaussian surface is zero.
Consequently, electric field must be zero at every point inside the
cavity.
5. Electrostatic Shielding: The phenomenon of making a region free from
any electric field is called electrostatic shielding. It is based on the fact
that electric field vanishes inside the cavity of a hollow conductor.
Applications: (i) In a thunderstorm accompanied with lightning, it is
safest to sit inside a car, rather than near a tree. The metallic body of
the car causes electrostatic shielding from the lightning.
(ii) Sensitive components of electronic devices are shielded from
external electric disturbances by placing metal shields around them.
6. Polarization in conductors: When a conductor is placed in an external electric field, it gets polarized similarly to
a dielectric, but the extent of polarization is such that the electric field due to polarization is in opposite
direction and has the same magnitude as external electric field
. Thus the net electric field in a conductor is = - = 0.
This proves that there is no electric field inside a conductor as
stated in properties of conductor.
7. Dielectric substances: A dielectric is a substance which does not allow the flow of charges through it but permits
them to exert electrostatic forces on one another through it. It is an insulator which can be polarized. eg. Glass,
wax, water, air, etc.
Polar and non-polar dielectrics: A molecule in which the centre of mass of positive charges does not coincide
with the centre of mass of negative charges is called a polar molecule. Eg. HCl, NH3, etc. Whereas a non-polar
dielectric is one in which centre of mass of positive and negative charges coincide. Eg. H2, N2, etc.
8. Polarization of dielectrics: (i) For non-polar dielectrics, in absence of any external electric field, they have no
dipole moment. But, when they are placed in an electric field, then the centre of mass of the positive and
negative charges get displaced in same and opposite
directions as electric field respectively. Because of
displacement of charges, an electric field due to these
charges is induced in opposite direction to the external

12
electric field. Thus, the net external electric field decreases. Thus, a net dipole moment is induced in the
direction of electric field.
(ii)Similar to non-polar dielectrics, polar dielectrics also when placed in external electric field, all the dipoles get
aligned in the direction of electric field (initially all molecules were randomly oriented giving net dipole moment
zero) which leads to a net dipole moment in the direction of electric field.
9. Dielectric constant (): It is the ratio of original electric field and the reduced electric field - in the
dielectric. It is also known as relative permittivity (r). = r =

10. Polarization ( ): It is defined as dipole moment per unit volume and its magnitude is referred as polarization
density. The direction of is same as that of external electric field.
11. Linear isotropic materials: Materials for which induced dipole moment is in the direction of external electric
field and is also proportional to field strength are called linear isotropic materials.
12. Electric susceptibility: If the field is not large, then the polarization is proportional to the resultant electric
, => = 0 , where (chi) is the proportionality constant called
field existing in the dielectric, i.e.,
electric susceptibility. It is a dimensionless quantity and is the ratio of polarization to 0 times the electric field in
this dielectric.
Relation between dielectric constant and electric susceptibility: = (K1). [Its derivation is not important]

Homework Sheet 3
1. Derive expression for potential energy of dipole in a uniform electric field.
2. During a thunderstorm Rohan and his friends were in the middle of a jungle. His friends were standing under a
tree. Rohan advised them not to stand there. Rather he suggest they should move back to the bus. He explained
them that they are safe inside the bus due to electrostatic shielding.
a. What are the values exhibited by Rohan?
b. What is electrostatic shielding?
3. Give 6 properties of conductor in electrostatics.
4. What do you mean by polar or non-polar dielectrics? How do they behave in external field?
5. Define the term 'dielectric constant' of a medium.
[Delhi 2013]
6. What is the relation between dielectric constant and electric susceptibility?
7. What are linear isotropic dielectric materials?
8. Why does the electric field inside a dielectric decrease when it is placed in an external Electric field? [Delhi 2013,
Foreign 2011]
9. On what factors extent of polarisation of dielectric depend?
10. Answer the following:
i.
Ordinary rubber is an insulator. But the special rubber tyres of aircrafts are made slightly conducting. Why is
this necessary?
ii.
A comb run through ones hair attract small bits of paper? What happens if the hair is wet or if it is a rainy
day?
iii.
Vehicles carrying inflammable materials usually have metallic ropes touching the ground during motion.
Why?
iv.
A bird perches on a bare high power line and nothing happens to the bird. A man standing on ground
touches the same line and gets a fatal shock? Why?
11. An electric dipole consists of two opposite charges each of 1C separated by 2cm. The dipole is placed in an
external electric field of 105NC-1. Find (i) the maximum torque exerted by field on the dipole, (ii) work which
external agent will have to do to turn dipole from 00 to 1800.
Ans. 210-3Nm, 410-3J.

13
12. A molecule of a substance has a permanent electric dipole moment of magnitude 10-29 Cm. A mole of this
substance is polarised (at low temperature) by applying a strong electrostatic field of magnitude 106 V m-1. The
direction of the field is suddenly changed by an angle of 60. Estimate the heat released by the substance in
aligning its dipoles along the new direction of the field. For simplicity, assume 100% polarisation of the sample.
Ans. 3J
Session 4:
1. Capacitor: It is an arrangement of two conductors separated by an insulating medium that is used to store
electric charge and electric energy. The two conductors can be of any shape and size. The circuit symbol for fixed
capacitor is
and for variable capacitor is
2. Capacitance: It is the measure of ability of an insulated conductor to hold electric charge. When a conductor is
charged, it acquires potential. If we increase the charge, then potential also increases. If a
charge Q is put on a conductor, then its potential increases by V. Then, Q V => Q = CV,
where proportionality constant C is called capacitance of the conductor. Graph of V v/s Q is
given in the adjoining figure.
Thus, capacitance of a conductor is defined as charge stored per unit potential difference.
Capacitance depends upon the following factors:
1. Size and shape of the conductor.
2. Nature (permittivity) of the surrounding medium.
Units of capacitance: SI unit of capacitance is farad (F). It is defined as capacitance of a conductor is 1 farad if
addition of a charge of 1 C, increases its potential by 1V. Dimensions: [M-1L-2T4A2].
For practical purposes, farad is a very large unit of capacitance.
We hence use, 1mF (millifarad) = 10-3F,
1F (microfarad)= 10-6F,
1pF (picofarad) =10-12F.
3. Variation of capacitance with potential and charge:

4. Capacitance of spherical conductor:

Consider an isolated sphere conductor of radius R. The charge Q is uniformly distributed over its entire
surface which can be assumed to be concentrated at the centre of the sphere. The potential at any point on
the surface of the spherical conductor will be V= .
Therefore, the capacitance of the spherical conductor is C= =

= .

C= 40R
To realize how big is farad as a unit, we use the above derived formula. For a spherical capacitor with 1F
capacitance, required radius of conductor is R=9106km (about 1500 times the radius of earth).
5. Capacitance of isolated conductor is small: When a conductor holds large amount of charge, its potential also
increases. If the associated electric field (E=/0) becomes high enough, then the atoms of surrounding air get
ionized leading to breakdown. On inserting a medium of dielectric constant , we can decrease the electric field
upto a certain extent. This puts limitation on the capacitance of a conductor and if we want a single conductor of
high capacitance, then it will have not feasible large size.
6. Dielectric strength: The maximum electric field the dielectric material can withstand without allowing a
transfer of charge between the plates is the dielectric strength. SI unit: V/m (same as that of electric field)

14
If the electric field strength in the dielectric exceeds the dielectric strength, the insulating properties will break
down and the dielectric material begins to conduct. This is called dielectric breakdown.
7. Principle of a capacitor:
i. Let there be a positively charged plate A and a parallel uncharged plate B placed near to it.
ii. Due to induction, the closer face of plate B acquires ve charge and the other face positive charge.
ve charge on B tends to decrease potential of A whereas +ve charge tends to increase potential
of A.
iii. Since, -ve charge face of B is closer to A, hence the potential of A decreases by small amount and
hence capacitance increases correspondingly.
iv. If the positive face of plate B is earthed, then all the positive charges will flow to ground, thus
decreasing potential of A by large amount and hence increasing its capacitance by a large amount.
8. Parallel Plate Capacitor:
Let us consider two parallel large plane conducting, each having area A and separated by distance d. The
two plates have charges Q and Q. Plate 1 has surface charge density =Q/A and plate 2 has surface charge
density .
For Outer region 1(region above plate 1),

E=

= 0.

[Here, we assume that the distance d is much smaller than the linear
dimensions of the plates (d2<<A). So we can assume that the plates to be
infinite plane sheet of uniform .+
Outer region 2 (region below the plate 2),

E=

= 0.

In the inner region between the plates 1 and 2, the electric fields due to the
two charged plates add up,
E=

Now, for uniform electric field , potential difference is electric field times the distance between the plates,
V=Ed =

The capacitance C of the plate capacitor is then, C = =

Note: The constant C is independent of Q or V and depends on the geometrical configuration (shape, size,
separation) of the two conductors.
Factors affecting capacitance of parallel plate capacitor:
1. Area of the plates (C A).
2. Distance between the plates (C 1/d).
3. Permittivity of the medium between plates (C ).

Just For Knowledge

Application of Capacitance: The touch screen on a mobile phone uses the concept of capacitance. Behind the
screen are two parallel layers, one behind the other, of thin strips of a transparent conductor such as indium tin
oxide. A voltage is maintained between two layers. The strips in one layer are oriented perpendicular to those in
the other layer; the points where two strips overlap act as a grid of capacitors. When we bring our finger
(conductor) upto a point on screen, our finger and the front conducting layer act like a second capacitor in series at
that point. The circuitry attached to the conducting layers detects the location of the capacitance change, and so
detects where we touched the screen.

15
9. Capacitance of a cylindrical capacitor: The capacitance of a cylindrical capacitor is given by, C =

where l is the length of the cylinder and a and b are the radius of two coaxial cylindrical shells.
10. Capacitance of system of two concentric spherical shells: Let radius of inner and external spheres be a and b.
Then, the capacitance of the spherical capacitor is given by, C = 40.

11. Potential difference for capacitors having different charges: For a capacitor having charges q1 and q2 on its two
plates, the potential difference between plates is given by, V =

12. Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor with a dielectric slab:

Suppose Q are the charges on the capacitor plates which produce a uniform electric field in the space between
the plates. Now, consider a dielectric inserted between the plates fully occupying the intervening region. It is
polarized by the field between the two plates and the effect is equivalent to two charged sheets with surface
charge densities P and - P. The net surface charge density on the plate is then (-P).
E=
Therefore the potential difference across the plates is
V = Ed =

d.

For linear dielectrics, (-P)

(as we expect P

E0, i.e., to

where E0 = )
P = , where K is a constant characteristic of the dielectric.
Since K>1, we then have, V= E

The capacitance C, with dielectric between the plates is then, C = =

The product 0K is called the permittivity of the medium, denoted by , =0K.

The dimensionless ratio, K=

is called the dielectric constant of the substance.

Thus from the above capacitance equation and C0=

K=

, we get:

Note: The above equation holds good for any type of capacitors and not just parallel plate capacitors.

16
13. Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor with a dielectric slab with thickness t:
Suppose +Q is the charge on one plate and Q is charge on the second plate. The thickness of the slab
must be less than the distance between the plates of the capacitor. When the electric field will be applied
then polarization of molecules will be started.
The polarization will take place in the direction same as that
of electric field. The polarization vector must be in the
direction of electric field Eo. Then this vector will start its
functioning and will produce an electric field Ep in the opposite
direction to that of Eo. The net electric field in the circuit is shown
by the figure E=Eo Ep.
The electric field Eo in the outside region of the dielectric will be
null.
Now the equation of the potential difference between the plates will be:
V=E0(d-t)+Et (Electric field due to slab and due to remaining space)

Also, E =

So, V= E0 (d-t) +

t.

V=E0 (d- t + )
V=

(d- t + ).

Thus the capacitance of the capacitor in introduction of dielectric slab becomes

C= =

In the above derivation, when t=d, then we get C = KC0.

14. Introducing dielectric slab between the plated of a charged capacitor with:
Property
Battery connected
Battery disconnected
Charge
K Q
Q

Potential difference
V

Electric field
E
Capacitance
K C
K C
Energy
times CV2 [Energy used for
K times CV2 [Energy is supplied by battery]
Polarization]

Homework Sheet 4
1. Define capacitance. Give its SI unit and dimensional formula. Give circuit symbol for capacitor and variable
capacitance.
2. Define one farad? Why we use smaller unit of farad?
3. Explain why the capacitance of the parallel plate capacitance condenser increases when the dielectric slab is
introduced between the plates. Define the relative permittivity of the dielectric. [DPS 2010-2011]
4. Derive an expression for the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor. What are the factors on which the
capacitor of a parallel plate capacitor depends?
[DPS]

17

5. Find the expression for the capacitance of parallel plate capacitor of area A and plate separation d if a dielectric
slab is inserted between the plates of a capacitor.
6. A dielectric slab of thickness t is placed between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor, having two identical
plates each of area A and separated by a distance d. Derive the expression for the capacitance the capacitor for
t<<d.
[KVS, 2014]
7. What happens to 1) electric field 2) capacitance 3) potential difference between the plates of capacitor when a
dielectric of dielectric constant k is inserted between plates. (consider two cases) 1) when capacitor is connected
to battery 2) when capacitor is disconnected from battery). Justify your answer in each case.
[Delhi 2010]
8. Two identical metal plates are given positive charge q1 and q2 respectively (q1>q2) respectively. If they are now
brought together to form a parallel plate capacitor with capacitance c. Calculate the potential difference
between the two plates.
[KVS, 2014]
9. A parallel plate capacitor is to be designed with a voltage rating 1 kV using a material of dielectric constant 3 and
dielectric strength about 107 Vm-1. For safety we would like the field never to exceed say, 10% of the dielectric
strength. What minimum area of the plates is required to have a capacitance of 50 pF? [Outside Delhi 2013]
Ans.19 cm2.
10. A slab of material of dielectric constant K has the same area as the plates of a parallel plate capacitor but has
thickness d, where d is separation between the plates. Find the expression for the capacitance when the slab
is inserted between the plates. [Foreign 2011]
11. A dielectric slab of thickness 1 cm and dielectric constant 5 is placed between the plates of a parallel plate
capacitor having a plate area 0.01m2 and the plate separation of 2 cm. (a) Determine the increase in capacity on
introduction of dielectric. (b) What would be the capacity, if the dielectric slab were conducting slab?[DPS, 2011]
Ans. 2.95pF, 8.85 pF
12. A slab of material of dielectric constant K has the same area as the plates of a parallel-plate capacitor but has a
thickness (3/4) d, where d is the separation of the plates. How is the capacitance changed when the slab is
inserted between the plates?
Ans. (4K/K+3)C0.
13. A parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates has a capacitance of 8pF. The separation between the
plates is now reduced by half and the space between them is filled with a medium of dielectric constant 6.
Calculate the value of capacitance of the capacitor in the second case. [All India 2006, Delhi 2013] Ans.96pF.
14. The two plates of a parallel plate capacitor are 4 mm apart. A slab of thickness 3 mm and dielectric constant 3 is
introduced between the plates with its faces parallel to them. The distance between the plates is so adjusted
that the capacitance of the capacitor becomes 2/3 of its original value. What is new distance between the
plates? [All India 2008]
Ans. 8mm.

18

Session 5:
1. Energy stored in a capacitor: A capacitor is a device used to store energy. The process of charging up a capacitor
involves the transferring of electric charges from its one plate to another. The work done in charging the
capacitor is stored as its electric potential energy.
2. Expression for the energy stored in a capacitor:
Suppose the conductors 1 and 2 are initially charged. Let +ve charge be transferred from conductor 2 to 1
in small installments dq till each conductor gets charge +Q (-Q in case of conductor 2). Hence 1 is at higher
potential at every stage of charging.
At any intermediate stage, suppose charge in conductor 1 is +q and that on 2 is q.
Thus, V = .
Small amount of work done in giving an additional charge dq is: dW = dq.
Total work done in giving charge Q,
W=
=
=
As electrostatic force is conservative, this work is stored as P.E. (U).
U=W=
On putting Q=CV, U =

= CV2

Now, putting CV=Q, thus U = QV

Hence, U =

= CV2 = QV.

Graphically, energy stored is the area shaded under the Q-V graph.

3. Energy Density:

Energy density, u =
=
[Using C =
u=(

and V=Ed]

)(

) = 0E2

i.e. , u = 0E2.
The above equation is valid for all types of electric field.
4. Redistribution of Charges: When two capacitors of capacitances C1 and C2 carrying charges Q1 and Q2 with
potentials V1 and V2 are connected by a thin conducting wire, then positive charge flows from capacitor at

19
higher potential to capacitor at lower potential. Thus the charges are redistributed. But the total charge remains
conserved, i.e., Q1+Q2.
Since capacitors are far apart that they do not exert mutual electric forces, thus the combined capacitance is
C1+C2.
Common Potential=
V=

.
.

If after redistribution charges on two capacitors are Q1 and Q2 respectively, then

Q1=C1V and Q2=C2V. =>

5. Loss of energy in redistribution of charges:

Let C1 and C2 be the capacitances and V1 and V2 be the potentials of the two conductors before they are
connected together. Potential energy before connection is
Ui = C1V12+ C2V22
After connection, let V be their common potential. Then, V=

Potential energy after connection is,

UF = (C1+ C2) V2 = (C1+C2)[

] =

Loss in energy, U=Ui - UF

= C1V12+ C2V22 -
[C12V12 + C1C2V12 + C1C2V22 + C22V22 - C12V12 C22V22 2C1C2V1V2]

[V12 + V22 2V1V2]

U=
This is always positive for V1<V2 or V2<V1.
Transient state: It is an interval of time for a capacitor during which distribution of charges takes place.
Steady state: A capacitor is said to be in steady state, when redistribution is over and the system is steady.
Special case: If C1 = C2 = C, V1 = V and V2 = 0
1. Common potential V =
=
=
2. After redistribution, the charges on both capacitors will be in the ratio,
Thus
=
i.e. common charge will be same on both the capacitors.
3. Potential energy before connection, Ui = C1V12+ C2V22
= CV2
Potential energy after connection is, UF =
=
= CV2
Thus, loss in energy, U = Ui - UF
= CV2 - CV2

= = 1.

20
U = CV2

Homework Sheet 5
1. Deduce the expression for electrostatic energy stored in a capacitor of capacitance C and having charge Q.
[All India 2012, KVV 2011]
2. Find the expression for loss of energy in redistribution of charges.
3. Sketch a graph to show (i) variation of charge with potential and (ii) variation of capacitance with charge.
4. *Two copper spheres of same radii, one hollow and other solid are charged to same potential. Which, if any, of
the two will have more charge?
5. *An electron and proton are brought nearer to each other. Will the potential energy increase or decrease? Give
reason.
[DPS 2013-14]
6. A parallel plate capacitor of capacitance C is charged to a potential V. It is then connected to another uncharged
capacitor having the same capacitance. Find out the ratio of the energy stored in the combined system to that
stored in the single capacitor. [All India 2014]
7. *A 5 F capacitor is charged by a 100 V supply. The supply is then disconnected and the charged capacitor is
connected to another uncharged 3 F capacitor. How much electrostatic energy of the first capacitor is lost in
the process of attaining the steady situation? [Outside Delhi 2013]
Ans.9.37510-3J
8. A parallel plate capacitor is charged to V volts by a d.c. source. The capacitor is then disconnected from the
source. If the distance between the plates is doubled, state, with reason, how (i) capacitance, (ii) potential
difference between plates, (iii) electric field between plates, (iv) charge on plates and (v) energy stored in the
capacitor, will change.[Foreign 2013]
9. Capacitors P, Q, R have each capacity C. A battery can charge capacitor P to potential difference V. If after
charging P, the battery is disconnected from it and the charged capacitor is connected in the following separate
instances Q and R: (a) To Q in parallel, and (b) To R in series than what will be the potential differences between
the plates of P in the two instances.
[DPS 2014]
-8
-8
10. Two charges 5 10 C and 3 10 C are located 16cm apart. At what point(s) on the line joining the two
charges is the electric potential zero? Take the potential at infinity to be zero.
Ans. 10cm, 40cm.
11. (a) A 900 pF capacitor is charged by 100 V battery. How much electrostatic energy is stored by the capacitor?
(b) The capacitor is disconnected from the battery and connected to another 900 pF capacitor. What is the
electrostatic energy stored by the system?
Ans. 4.510-6J, 2.2510-6J
12. A capacitor of capacitance 6F is charged to a potential of 150V. Its potential falls to 90V, when another
uncharged capacitor is connected to it. Find the capacitance of the second capacitor and the amount of energy
lost due to the connection.
Ans. 4, 0.027J.

21

Session 6:
1. Need for having combination of capacitors: In practical applications, the capacitances that we require are not
always available. So to get the exact capacitances, we use different available capacitances in various
combinations which make up the capacitance that we require. For example: If a technician wants a capacitance
of 2F, but capacitances of 1F are only available. Thus, we get 2F capacitance by parallel combination of two
1F capacitances, i.e. 1F + 1F = 2F
2. Combination of capacitors in series:
When the negative plate of one capacitor is connected to the positive plate of the second capacitor and negative
of second capacitor is connected to positive of third capacitor and so on, then the capacitors are said to be
connected in series.
Let three capacitors of capacitances C1, C2 and C3 are connected in series through a battery of potential difference
V. The charge across all the capacitors is equal and it is equal to Q.
Thus, potential difference across various capacitors are V1=
In series, V=V1+V2+V3 =
=

, V2= , V3=

Now, CS is the equivalent capacitance, then CS =

Thus,

+ .

For a series combination of n capacitors, we can write

=

+ +

3. Combination of capacitors in parallels:

When the positive plates of all capacitors are connected to one common point and the negative plates to
another common point, the capacitors are said to be connected in parallel.
Let three capacitors of capacitances C1, C2 and C3 are connected in parallel with potential difference V applied
across the combination. All capacitors have common potential difference V but different charges Q1=C1V,
Q2=C2V, Q3=C3V.
Total charge stored in the combination is Q=Q1+Q2+Q3= (C1+C2+C3) V.
If Cp is the equivalent capacitance of the parallel combination, then Q=CpV.
Thus, Cp V= (C1+C2+C3)V
Cp=C1+C2+C3.
For a parallel combination of n capacitors, we can write
Cp=C1+C2+C3+..+Cn.
4. Some Special Combinations of capacitors: (i) When n plates of same charge densities arranged in a manner that
alternate plates have same sign, then net capacitance of the arrangement will be (n-1) C, where C is the
capacitance of a single capacitor.
(ii) When two dielectric slabs are inserted into a capacitor such that the area of their plates is half of that of the
original capacitor, then they are connected in parallel with each other.
(iii) When two dielectric slabs are inserted into a capacitor such that the distance between their plates is half of
that of the original capacitor, then they are connected in series with each other.

22
5. Corona Discharge: For a spherical conductor, =

and E= . For a pointed end, radius r is very small. Thus,

becomes very high and hence electric field near the pointed ends is very high which causes ionization or even
breakdown of surrounding air. Due to this, the oppositely charged ions neutralize the pointed end while the
similarly charged ions are repelled away. Air molecules take away the charges from pointed ends and thus set up
an electric wind. The process by which the charges at the pointed end of a conductor get discharged is called
corona discharge.
6. Collecting action of hollow sphere: If we have a large conducting spherical shell of radius R on which we place
a charge Q, it spreads itself uniformly all over the sphere. The field outside the sphere is just that of a point
charge Q at the centre, while the field inside the sphere vanishes. So the potential outside is that of point charge
and inside it is constant.
The potential inside the conducting sphere =
Now suppose that we introduce a small sphere of radius r, carrying a charge q,
into the large one and place it at the centre. The potential due to this new charge
has following values.
Potential due to small sphere of radius r carrying charge q=
Potential at the surface of large shell of radius R =
Taking both charges q and Q in to account we have for the total potential V and the potential difference given
by,
V(R)=
V(r)= V(R)=
V(R) - V(r)= V(R)=

+ )
+ )
- )

Now assume that q is positive. It is observed that independent of charge Q V(R)-V(r) is always +ve. 0The
potential due to Q is constant upto radius R and so cancels out in the difference.
This means that if we connect the smaller and larger sphere by a wire, the charge q on the former will
immediately flow on to the matter, even though the charge Q may be quite large. The natural tendency is for
positive charge to move higher to lower potential. Thus, by inserting small sphere into large sphere, we can
increase amount of charge. The potential of the outer sphere would also keep rising, at least until it reaches the
breakdown field of air.
6. Energy stored in series combination of capacitors: For a series combination, Q=constant.
Total Energy: U=
U=

+..+

+.

U = U1+U2 + U3 +.
Energy stored in parallel combination of capacitors: For a parallel combination, V=constant.
Total Energy: U= CV2 = [C1+C2+C3+.+ V2
U= C1V2 + C2V2+ C3V2+
U=U1+U2+U3+.
7. Van de Graaff generator (NOT IN SYLLABUS): It is an electrostatic generator capable of building up high
potential differences of the order of 107 volts.
Principle: (i) Discharging action of sharp points (corona discharge) i.e., electric discharge takes place in air or
gases readily at the pointed ends of the conductors.

23
(ii) If a charged conductor (inside a hollow conductor) is brought into contact with a hollow conductor, all of its
charge transfers to the hollow conductor, howsoever high the potential of the latter may be.
Construction: It consists of a large metal sphere mounted on high insulating supports. An endless belt b, made
of insulating such as rubber, passes over the vertical pulleys P1 and P2. The pulley P2 is at the centre o+.
f the metal sphere and the pulley P1 is vertically below P2. The belt is run by an electric motor M. B1 and B2 are
two metal brushes called collecting combs.
Working:
1. The positive terminal of a high tension source (HT) is connected to the comb B1. Due to the process called
action of points, charges are accumulated at the pointed
ends of the comb, the field increases and ionizes the air
near them. The positive charges in air are repelled and get
deposited on the belt due to corona discharge. The charges
are carried by the belt upwards as it moves.
2. When the positively charged proton of the belt comes in
front of the brush B2, by the same process of action of
points and corona discharge occurs and the metal sphere
acquires positive charges. The positive charges are
uniformly distributed over the surface of the sphere.
3. Due to the action of points by the negative charges carried
by the gas in front of the comb B2, the positive charge of
the belt is neutralized. The uncharged portion of the belt returns down collects the positive charge from B1
which in turn is collected by B2. The charge transfer process is repeated.
4. As more and more positive charges are imparted to the sphere, its positive potential goes on rising until a
surface maximum is reached. If the potential goes beyond this, insulation property of air breaks down and
the sphere gets discharged. The breakdown of air takes place in an enclosed steel chamber filled with
nitrogen at high pressure.
Limitations of Van de Graff Generator: (i) It is impossible to create potential of more than 7 million volts. (ii)
Movement of charge takes place in only one direction.

Homework Sheet 6
1. Two metallic spheres of radii, r1 and r2, are far apart but are connected by a thin wire. Their combined charge is
Q. Find (i) the charge on the sphere of radius r1 and (ii) their common potential. [Foreign 2013]
2. Find the ratio of the potential difference that must be applied across the parallel and the series combination of
the identical capacitors so the energy stored in the two cases become the same. Ans. V1:V2 = n:1
[DPS 2014]
3. Find the equivalent capacitance of three capacitors when connected in series and in parallel. [DPS 2013-14]
4. A metal sphere A of radius a is charged to potential V. What will be its potential if it is enclosed by a spherical
conducting shell B of radius b and two are connected by a wire? Ans.

[KVS]

5. Two parallel plate capacitor, X and Y, have the same area of plate and same separation between them are
connected in series to a battery of 12V. X has air between the plates while Y contains a dielectric medium r=4.
(i)
Calculate capacitance of each capacitor if equivalent capacitance of the combination is 4F. Ans.
CX=5F, CY=20 F
(ii)
Calculate the potential difference between the plates of X and Y. Ans. VX=9.6V,VY=2.4V
(iii)
What is the ratio of electrostatic energy stored in X and Y? Ans. 4:1. [All India 2009]
6. Find the equivalent capacitance between P and Q. Ans. 1F.
[Udgam]
7. By what factor does the capacitance of a metal sphere increase if its volume is tripled? Ans.

24
8. How would you connect two capacitors across a battery, in series or parallel, so that they store greater (i) total
charge and (ii) total energy?
9. Three identical capacitors C1, C2 and C3 of capacitance 6 F each are connected to a 12 V
battery as shown.
Find (i) charge on each capacitor
Ans. 72C, 36 C, 36 C
(ii) equivalent capacitance of the network
Ans. 9F
(iii) energy stored in the network of capacitors
Ans. 648 J.
[All India 2009]
10. Two capacitors of capacitance of 6F and 12F are connected in series
with a battery. The voltage across the 6F capacitor is 2V. Compute the
total battery voltage. Ans. 3V. [All India 2006]
11. *Two dielectric slabs of dielectric constants K1 and K2 are filled in between
the two plates, each of area A, of the parallel plate capacitor as shown in
the figure. Find the net capacitance of the capacitor. [Delhi, 2013]
Ans. (K1+K2)0A/2d.
12. *Figure shows two identical capacitors, C1 and C2, each of 1 F capacitance connected to a battery of 6V. Initially
switch S is closed. After sometimes S is left open and dielectric slabs of
dielectric constant K=3 are inserted to fill completely the space between the
plates of two capacitors. How will the (i) charge and (ii) potential difference
between the plates of the capacitors be affected after the slabs are
inserted?[Delhi 2011] Ans. Charges will remain constant, potential
decreases by factor of 3.
13. Net capacitance of three identical capacitors in series is 1F. What will be their net capacitance if connected in
parallel? Find the ratio of energy stored in the two configurations if they are both connected to the same source.
[Delhi 2011]
Ans. 9 F, 1:9.
14. You are given an air filled parallel plate capacitor C1. The space between the plates is
now filled with slabs of dielectric constants K1 and K2 as shown in fig. Find the
capacitances of the capacitor C2 if area of the plates is A and distance between the
plates is d.[Foreign 2011, KVS 2014]

Ans. C1

15. Obtain the equivalent capacitance of the network in Fig. For a 300 V
supply, determine the charge and voltage across each capacitor. [KVV
2014, DPS 2011] Ans. 200/3pF, 10-8C, 10-8C, 10-8C, 2 10-8C, 100V,
50V, 50V, 200V.
16. A network of four capacitors each of 10 F capacitance is connected to
a 500 V supply as shown in the figure. Determine (a) equivalent
capacitance of the network, (b) charge on each capacitor. Ans.

F, 1.7mC,

1.7mC, 1.7mC, 5mC. [All India 2011]

17. The figure shows a network of five capacitors connected to a 100 V supply.
Calculate the total charge and the energy stored in the network. [Udgam ]
Ans. 1.7510-4C , 8.75 mJ

ASSIGNMENT SHEET
1.

-3

(JEE) A parallel-plate capacitor contains one mica sheet of thickness d 1=10 m and one fibre sheet of thickness d 2=0.510
3
6
m. The dielectric constants of mica and fibre are 8 and 2.5 respectively. Fibre breaks down in an electric field of 6.410 Vm
1
. What maximum voltage can be applied in the capacitor?
Ans. 5200V.

25
2.

(JEE) What is the capacitance of arrangement of four plates of area A at distance d

in air as shown in figure?

3.

4.

5.

6.
7.

*KVS a bad region+

Ans.

Two identical parallel plate (air) capacitors C1 and C2 have capacitances C each.
The space between their plates is now filled with dielectrics as shown. If the two
capacitors still have equal capacitance, obtain the relation between dielectric
constants K, K1 and K2.
Ans. 2K=K1+K2.
A parallel-plate capacitor consists of 26 metal strips, each of 3cm4cm, separated by
mica sheets of dielectric constant 6 and uniform thickness 0.2 mm. Find the
-9
capacitance.
Ans. 7.9210 F.
An electrical technician requires a capacitance of 2 F in a circuit across a potential difference of 1 kV. A large number of 1
F capacitors are available to him each of which can withstand a potential difference of not more than 400 V. Suggest a
possible arrangement that requires the minimum number of capacitors.
Ans. 18.
Find the ratio of the potential differences that must be applied across the parallel and the series combination of two
identical capacitors so that the energy stored, in two cases becomes the same. [Foreign 2010]Ans. 1:2.
The space between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor is filled consecutively with two electric layers of thickness d 1 and
d2 having relative permittivitys 1 and 2 respectively. If A is area of each plate, what is the capacity of the capacitor?

Ans.
8.
9.

-8

The negative plate of a parallel plate capacitor is given a charge of -2010 C. Find the charges appearing on the four
-8
-8
-8
-8
surfaces of the capacitor plates. Ans. -1010 C,1010 C,-1010 C,-1010 C.
Two opposite corners of a square carry charge Q and the other two opposite corners of the square carry q charge each. If

the resultant force on Q is zero, how are Q and q related?

Ans. Q = -2 q.
10. A small test charge is released at rest at a point in an electrostatic field configuration. Will it travel along the line of force?
11. Four charges +q, +q, -q, -q are placed respectively at the four corners A, B, C and D of a square of side a. Calculate the
2

electric field at the centre of the square.

Ans.(4 kq)/a .
-5
12. A particle of mass 910 g is kept over a large horizontal sheet of charge density 510 -5C/m2.
What charge should be given to the particle, so that if released, it does not fall? Ans. 3.1210-13C.
13. 64 identical drops of radius 0.02m and each carrying a charge of 5C are combined to form a
bigger drop. Find how the surface charge density will change if no charge is lost.
Ans. It will increase to 4 times.
14. Three charges each equal to q are placed at the three corner of a square of side a. Find the electric
field at the fourth corner. Ans.1.914kq/a2.