Q. An electric dipole is placed at an angle of 30° to a non-uniform electric field. The dipole will experience
A) A translational force only in the direction of the field
B) A translational force only in a direction normal to the direction of the field
C) A torque as well as a translational force
D) A torque only
Explanation
(c) In a non-uniform electric field, the dipole may experience both non-zero torque as translational force.
For example as shown in figure,
[image:1_image364.emf]
$F_{1} \neq F_{2}$as $E\ $is non-uniform.
Torque would also be non-zero.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.