Q. An electric dipole has the magnitude of its charge as $q$ and its dipole moment is $p.$ It is placed in a uniform electric field $E.$ If its dipole moment is along the direction of the field, the force on it and its potential energy are respectively
A) $2q.E$ and minimum
B) $q.E$ and $p.E$
C) Zero and minimum
D) $q.E$ and maximum
Explanation
(c) In the given condition angle between $\overrightarrow{p}$ and $\overrightarrow{E}$ is zero.
Hence potential energy $U = - pE\cos 0 = - pE = \min$
Also in uniform electric field $F_{net} = 0$
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.