Q. A parallel plate air capacitor is charged to a potential difference of V volts. After disconnecting the charging battery the distance between the plates of the capacitor is increased using an insulating handle. As a result the potential difference between the plates :
A) decreases
B) does not change
C) becomes zero
D) increases
Explanation
[Solution from source] With the battery disconnected, the charge Q stays constant. Increasing the plate separation lowers C = ε₀A/d, so V = Q/C increases. The p.d. would stay constant only if the battery remained connected. Answer (4).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.