Electric Potential 4

Version One Homework 1 Juyang Huang 24018 Jan 16, 2008
This print-out should have 66 questions.

Multiple-choice questions may continue on
the next column or page find all choices
before answering. The due time is Central
time.
Charge in Lightning 03
23:01, trigonometry, numeric, > 1 min, normal.
001 (part 1 of 1) 10 points
A strong lightning bolt transfers about 25 C
to Earth.
The charge on an electron is 1.60218
19
10
C.
How many electrons are transferred?
Correct answer: 1.56038 1020 .
Explanation:
Let :
q = 25 C .
The charge is proportional to the number

of electrons, so
q = n qe
q
n=
qe
=
25 C
1.60218 1019 C
= 1.56038 1020 .
AP EM 1993 MC 55
23:04, trigonometry, multiple choice, < 1 min,
fixed.
Two metal spheres that are initially uncharged are mounted on insulating stands,
as shown.

side opposite to the rubber rod. Y is allowed

to touch X and then is removed some distance
away. The rubber rod is then moved far away
from X and Y.
What are the final charges on the spheres?
Sphere X
Sphere Y
1. Zero
Zero
2. Negative
Negative
3. Negative
Positive
4. Positive
Negative correct
5. Positive
Positive
Explanation:
The force is repulsive if the charges are of
the same sign, so when the negatively charged
rod moves close to the sphere X, the negatively charged electrons will be pushed to
sphere Y. If X and Y are separated before
the rod moves away, those charges will remain on X and Y. Therefore, X is positively
charged and Y is negatively charged.
keywords:
keywords:
Acceleration of a Particle
A particle of mass 50 g and charge 50 C is
released from rest when it is 50 cm from a
second particle of charge 20 C.
Determine the magnitude of the initial acceleration of the 50 g particle.
Correct answer: 719 m/s2 .
Explanation:
A negatively charged rubber rod is brought

close to but does not make contact with sphere
X. Sphere Y is then brought close to X on the
Let : m = 50 g ,
q = 50 C = 5 105 C ,
d = 50 cm = 0.5 m ,
Q = 20 C = 2 105 C ,
ke = 8.9875 109 .
and
The force exerted on the particle is

|q1 | |q2 |
= ma
r2
~
k~q k kQk
k~ak = ke
2
m d 5
5 10 C 2 105 C
= ke
(0.05 kg) (0.5 m2 )
2
= 719 m/s .
F = ke
From the right triangle in the figure above,

we see that
a
sin = .
L
Therefore
a = L sin
= (0.15 m) sin(5 )
= 0.0130734 m .
keywords:
Hanging Charges
Two identical small charged spheres hang in
equilibrium with equal masses as shown in
the figure. The length of the strings are equal
and the angle (shown in the figure) with the
vertical is identical.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s2
and the value of Coulombs constant is
8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 .
5
0.1
m
5
0.03 kg
0.03 kg
Find the magnitude of the charge on each

sphere.
Correct answer: 4.4233 108 C.
Explanation:
Let : L = 0.15 m ,
m = 0.03 kg ,
= 5 .
The separation of the spheres is r = 2 a =

0.0261467 m . The forces acting on one of the
spheres are shown in the figure below.
T
T cos
Fe
T sin
mg
Because the sphere is in equilibrium, the

resultant of the forces in the horizontal and
vertical directions must separately add up to
zero:
X
Fx = T sin Fe = 0
X
Fy = T cos m g = 0 .
From the second equation in the system

mg
, so T can be
above, we see that T =
cos
eliminated from the first equation if we make
this substitution. This gives a value
Fe = m g tan
= (0.03 kg) 9.8 m/s2 tan(5 )

= 0.0257217 N ,
for the electric force.
From Coulombs law, the electric force between the charges has magnitude
and
|q|2
|Fe | = ke 2 ,
r

where |q| is the magnitude of the charge on
each sphere.
Note: The term |q|2 arises here because the
charge is the same on both spheres.
This equation can be solved for |q| to give
s
|Fe | r2
|q| =
ke
s
(0.0257217 N) (0.0261467 m)2
=
(8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 )
= 4.4233 108 C .
Serway CP 15 11
Three charges are arranged in a triangle as
shown.
The Coulomb constant is 8.98755
9
10 N m2 /C2 .
y
0.3 m
+
+
0.1 m
F1,3
The repulsive force

q1 q2
2
r1,2
= 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2
5 109 C 6 109 C
(0.3 m)2
= 2.99585 106 N
acts along the negative x-axis, and the attractive force
F1,3 = kC
q1 |q3 |
2
r1,3
= 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2
5 109 C 3 109 C
(0.1 m)2
= 1.34813 105 N
6 nC
3 nC
What is the net electrostatic force on the
charge at the origin?
Correct answer: 1.38102 105 N.
Explanation:
Let :
F1,2 = kC
keywords:
5 nC
F1,2
q1 = 5 nC = 5 109 C ,
q2 = 6 nC = 6 109 C ,
q3 = 3 nC = 3 109 C ,
r1,2 = 0.3 m ,
r1,3 = 0.1 m , and
kC = 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 .
acts along the negative y-axis.

Thus
Fnet = (2.99585 106 N)2
+(1.34813 105 N)2
= 1.38102 105 N .
1/2

What is the direction of this force (as an angle
between 180 and 180 measured from the
positive x-axis, with counterclockwise positive)?
Correct answer: 102.529 .
Explanation:
tan =
The electric field strength E
F1,3
F1,2
F1,3
= tan
F1,2
5 N
1 1.34813 10
= tan
2.99585 106 N
= 77.4712
1
below the negative x-axis. From the positive

x-axis, the angle is
180 + 77.4712 = 102.529 .
1
r2
EA
= A
1
EB
rB2
1
, so
r2
rB2
(2 r)2
=
= 4 .
rA2
r2
keywords:
Two Charge Field
23:13, trigonometry, multiple choice, > 1 min,
wording-variable.
Two point-charges at fixed locations produce an electric field as shown below.
keywords:
AP B 1993 MC 68
fixed.
The diagram shows an isolated, positive
charge Q, where point B is twice as far away
from Q as point A.
+Q
10 cm
20 cm
The ratio of the electric field strength at

point A to the electric field strength at point
B is
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
EA
EB
EA
EB
EA
EB
EA
EB
EA
EB
8
= .
1
4
= . correct
1
2
= .
1
1
= .
1
1
= .
2
B
X
Y
A negative charge placed at point X would
move
1. toward charge B. correct
2. toward charge A.
3. along an equipotential plane.
Explanation:
The electric field runs from a positive potential to a negative potential, so it points
from a positive charge to a negative charge.
Therefore the charge B is positive. A negative
charge will move toward a positive potential,
which creates lower potential energy and a
higher kinetic energy.
Explanation:
Let : rB = 2 rA .

The electric field at point X is

1. stronger than the field at point Y . correct
2. weaker than the field at point Y .
3. the same as that the field at point Y .
Explanation:
The field at X is stronger than the field
at Y , since the number of field lines per unit
volume at X is greater than the number of
field lines per unit volume at Y .
Estimate the ratio of the magnitude of
charge A to the magnitude of charge B. Your
answer must be within 5%.
Correct answer: 1.88889 .
Explanation:
The number of field lines is proportional to
the magnitude of the charge.
keywords:
QA
17
= 1.88889
Q
9
B
QA
Q 1.88889 .
B
Maximum force on one charge

23:05, calculus, multiple choice, > 1 min,
fixed.
Charge Q is on the y axis a distance a from
the origin and charge q is on the x axis a
distance d from the origin.
What is the value of d for which the x
component of the force on q is the greatest?
1. d = 0
2. d = a
3. d = 2 a
a
2
a
5. d = correct
2
4. d =
q
a
Q
q
7. d =
2a
Q
q a
8. d =
Q2
q a
9. d =
Q 2
Explanation:
We have the force on charge q on the x axis
due to charge Q on the y axis
6. d =
~ =
F
1 qQ
r ,
4 0 r 2
p
where r = a2 + d2 . So the x component of
the force on q is
1
4 0
1
=
4 0
1
=
4 0
Fx =
qQ
cos
r2
qQ
d
2
2
2
a +d
a + d2
qQd
.
2
(a + d2 )3/2
For maximum x component of the force,

Fx
= 0 is required. Therefore
d
a2 2 d 2
Fx
qQ
=
=0
d
4 0 (a2 + d2 )5/2
a2 2 d 2 = 0
a
d= .
2
keywords:
Charged Semicircle
23:10, calculus, numeric, > 1 min, normal.
Consider the setup shown in the figure below, where the arc is a semicircle with radius
r. The total charge Q is negative, and distributed uniformly on the semicircle. The
charge on a small segment with angle is
labeled q.

y
y
k |q| cos
II
I
4. Ex =
A
x
r

k |q| sin
III IV
5. Ex =
x
r
6. Ex = k |q| r 2
7. Ex = k |q| (sin ) r 2
B
q is given by
8. Ex = k |q| (cos ) r 2
1. None of these
9. Ex = k |q| (cos ) r
2. q = Q
3. q =
4. q =
5. q =
6. q =
7. q =
8. q =
Q
2
2 Q
Q
correct
Q
2
2Q
9. q = 2 Q
10. q = Q
Explanation:
The angle of a semicircle is , thus the
charge on a small segment with angle is
Q
q =
.

The magnitude of the x-component of the
electric field at the center, due to q, is given
by
k |q|
r2
k |q| sin
2. Ex =
r2
k |q| cos
3. Ex =
correct
r2
1. Ex =
10. Ex = k |q| (sin ) r

Explanation:
Negative charge attracts a positive test
charge. At O, E points toward q . According to the sketch, the vector Ex is pointing
along the negative x axis. The magnitude of
the Ex is given by
Ex = E cos =
k |q|
cos .
r2

Determine the magnitude of the electric field
at O . The total charge is 7.5 C, the radius
of the semicircle is 14 cm, and the Coulomb
constant is 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 .
Correct answer: 2.18941 106 N/C.
Explanation:
Let : Q = 7.5 C ,
r = 14 cm , and
k = 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 .
By symmetry of the semicircle, the ycomponent of the electric field at the center
is
Ey = 0 .
Combining part 1 and part 2,
k |q| cos
r2
k |Q|
cos
=
r2
Ex =

Therefore, the magnitude of the electric field
at the center is given by
E = Ex =
/2
/2
k |Q|
cos d
r2
2 k |Q|
=
.
r2
Let : s = 6 m ,
h = 4 m , and
E = 52 N/C .
By Gauss law,
~ A
~
=E
For the above values, the magnitude is given

by
2 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 |(7.5 C)|

E=
(14 cm)2
= 2.18941 106 N/C .
The direction is along negative x axis.
y
y
A
II
I
x
r

III IV
E
B
keywords:
Flux Through a Pyramid
A (6 m by 6 m) square base pyramid with
height of 4 m is placed in a vertical electric
field of 52 N/C.
4m
6m
52 N/C
Calculate the total electric flux which goes
out through the pyramids four slanted surfaces.
Correct answer: 1872 N m2 /C.
Explanation:
Since there is no charge contained in the pyramid, the net flux through the pyramid must
be 0 N/C. Since the field is vertical, the flux
through the base of the pyramid is equal and
opposite to the flux through the four sides.
Thus we calculate the flux through the base
of the pyramid, which is
= E A = E s2
= (52 N/C) (6 m)2
= 1872 N m2 /C .
keywords:
Flux Through a Submarine
The following charges are located inside a submarine: 5 C, 9 C, 27 C, and 84 C.
Calculate the net electric flux through the
submarine.
Correct answer: 6.88954 106 N m2 /C.
Explanation:
Let :
q1 = 5 C = 5 106 C ,
q2 = 9 C = 9 106 C ,
q3 = 27 C = 2.7 105 C ,
and
q4 = 84 C = 8.4 105 C .
From Gausss Law:

q1 + q 2 + q 3 + q 4
=
0
6
(5 10 C) + (9 106 C)
=
8.854 1012 C2 /N m2
(2.7 105 C) + (8.4 105 C)
+
8.854 1012 C2 /N m2
= 6.88954 106 N m2 /C .

keywords:
Long Cylindrical Insulator 03
Consider a long, uniformly charged, cylindrical insulator of radius R with charge density
1 C/m3 . (The volume of a cylinder with
radius r and length ` is V = r 2 `.)
The value of the Permittivity of free space
is 8.85419 1012 C2 /N m2
The flux leaving the ends of the Gaussian

cylinder is negligible, and the only contribution to the flux is from the side of the cylinder.
Since the field is perpendicular to this surface,
the flux is
s = 2 r ` E ,
and the charge enclosed by the surface is
Qenc = r2 ` .
Using Gauss law,
Qenc
0
r2 `
2r`E =
.
0
s =
Thus
r
2 0
1 106 C/m3 (0.01 m)

=
2 (8.85419 1012 C2 /N m2 )
E=
1 cm
= 564.705 N/C .
What is the magnitude of the electric field
inside the insulator at a distance 1 cm from
the axis (1 cm < R)?
Correct answer: 564.705 N/C.
Explanation:
Let : r = 1 cm = 0.01 m ,
= 1 C/m3
= 1 106 C/m3 , and
0 = 8.85419 1012 C2 /N m2 .
Consider a cylindrical Gaussian surface of
radius r and length ` much less than the
length of the insulator so that the component of the electric field parallel to the axis is
negligible.
Uniformly Charged Sphere 04

fixed.
4 R3
,
3
= 4 R2 .
Given : Vsphere =
Asphere
and
Consider a sphere, which is an insulator, where charge is uniformly distributed

throughout.
Consider a spherical Gaussian surface with
R
radius , which is concentric to the sphere
2
with a radius R.
Q is the total
charge inside
the sphere.
R
`
keywords:
R
p
R
2

The total amount of flux flowing through
the Gaussian surface is given by
Q
.
0
Q
2. =
.
4 0
Q
3. =
.
2 0
Q
4. =
. correct
8 0
2Q
5. =
.
0
4Q
.
6. =
0
Explanation:
Basic Concept: Gauss Law.
Solution: For spherical symmetric case,
1. =
2
~ = kQ .
6. kEk
2 R2
Explanation:
Gausss Law gives us
Q
4 r2 E = encl
0
3
R
4
Q 3
2
=
0 4
R3
3
Q
,
=
8 0
Q
2
R
8 0
4
2
Q
=
4 0 2 R 2
kQ
=
.
2 R2
E=
= 4 r2 E
Q
= encl .
0
Qencl
0
3
4 R
Q
2
3
0 4 3
R
3
Q
.
8 0

~ at R
The magnitude of the electric field kEk
2
is given by
~ =
1. kEk
~ =
2. kEk
~ =
3. kEk
~ =
4. kEk
~ =
5. kEk
kQ
. correct
2 R2
kQ
.
R2
2kQ
.
R2
2 k Q2
.
R2
k Q2
.
R2
keywords:
Shell Game 01 v2
fixed.
Consider the following spherically symmetric
situation: We have a charge q1 on a metallic
ball at the center, inside of a conducting shell
of inner radius R2 and outer radius R3 . There
is a total charge of q2 on the shell.
R3 , q200
R2 , q20
q2
R1 , q 1
q1
O
A
B
C
a
b
c

Find E at A where OA = a.
1. EA
2. EA
3. EA
4. EA
5. EA = 0
q1
3 a2
q1
7. EA = k
2 a2
2 q1
8. EA = k 2
a
3 q1
9. EA = k 2
a
4 q1
10. EA = k 2
a
Explanation:
Pick a Gaussian surface (sphere since we
are in spherical symmetry) center at the point
charge and of radius a. This surface contains
only the point charge, so qencl = q1 . The
formula for E gives
6. EA = k
k q1
.
a2

Find E at B, where OB = b.
1. EB = 0 correct
q1
a2
q1
=k 2
b
q1
=k 2
2b
q1
=k 2
c
q2
=k 2
2b
q1 + q 2
=k
2 b2
2. EB = k
3. EB
4. EB
5. EB
6. EB
7. EB
q1 q 2
b2
3 q1
9. EB = k 2
b
4 q1
10. EB = k 2
b
Explanation:
For an electrostatic situation, inside of a
conductor, there is no charge; i.e., qinside = 0.
~ inside = 0 and there is no flux inside,
Also, E
inside = 0.
Thus
EB = 0 .
8. EB = k
q1
= k 2 correct
a
q1
=k 2
2a
q1
=k 2
b
q1
=k 2
c
EA =
10
Notice also that since the electric field at B

is zero, the total enclosed charge is zero, or
q1 + q20 = 0. Therefore
q20 = q1 .
This verifies that the charge on the inner
surface of a conducting shell is q1 , where
q1 is the charge is the charge enclosed by the
shell.
Find E at C, where OC = c.
1. EC = 0
q1
a2
q1 + q 2
3. EC = k
b2
q1 q 2
4. EC = k
2 a2
q1
5. EC = k 2
c
q1
6. EC = k 2
2b
q1 + q 2
7. EC = k
correct
c2
q1 q 2
8. EC = k
c2
3 q1
9. EC = k 2
c
4 q1
10. EC = k 2
c
Explanation:
2. EC = k

Here the Gaussian surface is a sphere centered at the point charge q1 and of radius c.
The enclosed charge in this sphere is all the
charge, or q1 + q2 . The electric field at C is
EC = k
q1 + q 2
.
c2
11
If there is no net charge on the insulated

metal object when brought near to, but not
in contact with the sphere, there is also no
net charge on it. Only the charge distribution
changes.
Since there is repulsion among like charges,
charges reside uniformly on the surface of the
sphere.
keywords:
keywords:
Solid Conducting Sphere

fixed.
A positive charge of 106 coulomb is placed
on an insulated solid conducting sphere.
Which of the following is true?
Field From a Charged Plate JM

fixed.
A uniformly charged conducting plate with
area A has a total charge Q which is positive.
The figure below shows a cross-sectional view
of the plane and the electric field lines due to
the charge on the plane. The figure is not
drawn to scale.
+Q
+
E
E
+
+
+
+
+
+ P
+
+
+
+
1. When a second conducting sphere is

connected by a conducting wire to the first
sphere, charge is transferred until the electric potentials of the two spheres are equal.
correct
2. The electric field inside the sphere is constant in magnitude, but not zero.
3. The electric field in the region surrounding the sphere increases with increasing distance from the sphere.
4. An insulated metal object acquires a net
positive charge when brought near to, but not
in contact with, the sphere.
5. The charge resides uniformly throughout
the sphere.
Explanation:
Every point in the conductor becomes equipotential, and the electric field is defined as
the gradient of the electric potential, so inside
the conducting sphere, all points are equipotential and there is no electric field.
Outside the conducting sphere, the electric
field is the same when there are net charges at
the center of the sphere, so the electric field
decreases with increasing distance from the
sphere.
Find the magnitude of the field at point P ,

which is a distance a from the plate. Assume
that a is very small when compared to the
dimensions of the plate, such that edge effects
can be ignored.
~ =
1. kEk
~ =
2. kEk
~ =
3. kEk
~ =
4. kEk
~ =
5. kEk
Q
0 A
Q
correct
2 0 A
Q
4 0 A
Q
4 0 a2
Q
4 0 a
~ = 2 0 Q A
6. kEk
~ = 0 Q A
7. kEk

~ = 4 0 a2 Q
8. kEk
~ = 4 0 a Q
9. kEk
tudes but with opposite signs) and > 0.

Q
~ = 0 Q a2
10. kEk
Explanation:
Basic Concepts Gauss Law, electrostatic
properties of conductors.
Solution: Let us consider the Gaussian
surface shown in the figure.
+Q
+
+
+
+
E
E
+
+
+
S
+
+
+
+
R2
R3
Q
R1
Find the magnitude of the electric field at

the point a distance r1 from the axis of the
inner conductor, where R1 < r1 < R2 .
1. E = 0
2. E =
Due to the symmetry of the problem, there

is an electric flux only through the right and
left surfaces and these two are equal. If the
cross section of the surface is S, then Gauss
Law states that
3. E =
TOTAL = 2 E S
1 Q
=
S , so
0 A
Q
E=
.
2 0 A
6. E =
4. E =
5. E =
7. E =
8. E =
9. E =
keywords:
12
correct
2 0 r1
2 0 r1
3 0 r1
2
3 0 r1
R1
4 0 r1 2
R1
3 0 r1 2
2 R 1
4 0 r1 2
2 0 R1
10. None of these.

Coaxial Cable 01
24:05, calculus, multiple choice, < 1 min, normal.
A long coaxial cable consists of an inner cylindrical conductor with radius R1 and an outer
cylindrical conductor shell with inner radius
R2 and outer radius R3 as shown. The cable extends out perpendicular to the plane
shown. The charge on the inner conductor
per unit length along the cable is and the
corresponding charge on the outer conductor per unit length is (same in magni-
Explanation:
Pick a cylindrical Gaussian surface with the
radius r1 and apply the Gausss law; we obtain
Q
E ` 2 r1 =
0
E=
.
2 0 r1
The electric field vector points
1. in the negative r direction

2. in the positive r direction correct
Explanation:
The field points from positive charge to
negative change.
Since the center conductor is negatively
charged, the electric field vector points in the
negative r direction.
Find the magnitude of the electric field at the
point a distance r2 from the axis of the inner
conductor, where R3 < r2 .
Let : ` = 100 m ,
R1 = 1 mm , and
R2 = 1.5 mm .
We calculate the potential across the capacitor by integrating E ds. We may choose
a path of integration along a radius; i.e.,
E ds = Edr.
1 q
V =
2 0 l
3. E =
4. E =
5. E =
6. E =
7. E =
8. E =
9. E =
2 0 r2
2 0 r2
3 0 r2
2
3 0 r2
R1
4 0 r2 2
R1
3 0 r2 2
2 R 1
4 0 r2 2
2 0 R1
R1
R2
dr
r
R 1
1 q
ln r
=
2 0 l
R2
R2
q
ln
.
=
2 0 l
R1
1. E = 0 correct
2. E =
13
Since C =
q
, we obtain the capacitance
V
2 0 l

R2
ln
R1
2 (8.85419 1012 c2 /N m2 )
=
1.5 mm
ln
1 mm
(100 m)
C=
= 13.7207 nF .
10. None of these.

Explanation:
Pick a cylindrical Gaussian surface with the
radius r2 and apply the Gausss law. Because
there is no net charge inside the Gaussian
surface, the electric field E = 0 .
For a 100 m length of coaxial cable with inner
radius 1 mm and outer radius 1.5 mm.
Find the capacitance C of the cable.
Correct answer: 13.7207 nF.
Explanation:
keywords:
Charge in a Closed Surface
A closed surface with dimensions a = b =
0.4 m and c = 0.36 m is located as in the figure. The electric field throughout the region
~ = ( + x2 )
is nonuniform and given by E
where x is in meters, = 3 N/C, and
= 2 N/(C m2 ).

y
(0.133632 N m2 /C)
= 1.1832 1012 C .

What is the sign of the charge enclosed in the
surface?
a
x
b
What is the magnitude of the net charge

enclosed by the surface?
Explanation:
Let :
14
a = b = 0.4 m ,
c = 0.36 m ,
= 3 N/C , and
= 2 N/(C m2 ) .
The electric field throughout the region is

directed along the x-axis and the direction of
~ is perpendicular to its surface. Therefore,
dA
~
~ over the four faces of
E is parallel to d A
the surface which are perpendicular to the
~ is perpendicular to d A
~ over
yz plane, and E
the two faces which are parallel to the yz
plane. That is, only the left and right sides
of the right rectangular parallel piped which
encloses the charge will contribute to the flux.
The net electric flux through the cube is
Z
Z
=
Ex d A
Ex d A
right side
left side
= a b + (a + c)2 a2
= a b (2 a c + c2 )
= a b c (2 a + c)
= (0.4 m) (0.4 m) (0.36 m)
[2 N/(C m2 )] [2 (0.4 m) + 0.36 m]
= 0.133632 N m2 /C ,
so the enclosed charge is

q = 0
= [8.85419 1012 C2 /(N m2 )]
1. positive correct
2. negative
3. Cannot be determined
Explanation:
Since there is more flux coming out of the
surface than going into the surface, the sign
of the enclosed charge must be positive.
Flux Through a Loop 01
A 40 cm diameter loop is rotated in a uniform
electric field until the position of maximum
electric flux is found. The flux in this position
is measured to be 520000 N m2 /C.
What is the electric field strength?
Correct answer: 4.13803 106 N/C.
Explanation:
Let : r = 20 cm = 0.2 m
and
= 520000 N m2 /C .
By Gauss law,
=
~ dA
~
E
The position of maximum electric flux will be

that position in which the plane of the loop is
perpendicular to the electric field; i.e., when
~ dA
~ = E dA. Since the field is constant,
E
= E A = E r 2
r2
520000 N m2 /C
=
(0.2 m)2
E=
= 4.13803 106 N/C .
0.2

15
1.5 106 C
+ 3 106 C
keywords:
3
5 106 C
Three Point Charges 17
= 101917 V .
normal.
Consider three point charges at the vertices of
an equilateral triangle. Let the potential be
What is the vertical component of the electric
zero at infinity.
force on the 1.5 C charge due to the 3 C
The value of the Coulomb constant is
charge?
8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 .
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
1.5 C
1. F =
cot 30
(0.2 m)2
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
cot 60
2. F =
(0.2 m)2
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
cos 30 correct
3. F =
60
(0.2 m)2
P
3 C
5 C
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
4. F =
cos 60
What is the electrostatic potential at the
(0.2 m)2
point P at the center of the base of the equike (1.5 C) (3 C)
lateral triangle given in the diagram?
tan 30
5. F =
2
(0.2
m)
Correct answer: 101917 V.
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
Explanation:
6. F =
tan 60
(0.2 m)2
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
Let : q1 = 1.5 C = 1.5 106 C ,
7. F =
(0.2 m)2
q2 = 3 C = 3 106 C ,
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
8. F =
sin 45
q3 = 5 C = 5 106 C ,
(0.2 m)2
a = 0.2 m , and
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
9. F =
tan 45
ke = 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 .
(0.2 m)2
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
The potential at P is given by
10. F =
cot 45
(0.2 m)2
X qi
V = ke
.
ri
Explanation:
i
From the sketch below, the height h is given

by
r
a 2 3
=
h = a2
a.
2
2
Notice that q1 > 0,q2 > 0, and q3 < 0.
q1
q2
q3
VP = k e
+
+
h
a/2 a/2
2 k e q1
+ q2 + q3
=
a
3
2 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2

=
0.2 m
Fv = F cos
k e q1 q2
=
cos
r2
ke (1.5 C) (3 C)
=
cos 30
2
(0.2 m)
Find the total electrostatic energy of the system, again with the zero reference at infinity.
Correct answer: 0.80888 J.

Explanation:
The total electrostatic energy of the system is the sum of the electrostatic energies
between each pair of charges:
U = U12 + U23 + U31
The electrostatic energy between the charges
qi and qj is given by
Uij =
qi qj
4 0 r
where r is the distance between the charges,

1
,
so, since ke =
4 0
h
i
U = k e a q1 q2 + q 2 q3 + q 3 q1
= 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2

h
(0.2 m) (1.5 106 C) (3 106 C)
+ (3 106 C) (5 106 C)
+ (5 106 C) (1.5 106 C)

= 0.80888 J .
keywords:
AP B 1993 MC 70
fixed.
Two negatively charged spheres with different
radii are shown in the figure below.
The two conductors are now conneted by a

wire.
Which of the following occurs when the two

spheres are connected with a conducting wire?
1. No charge flows.
keywords:
Moving a Charge
It takes 120 J of work to move 1 C of charge
from a positive plate to a negative plate.
What voltage difference exists between the
plates?
Explanation:
Let : W = 120 J
q = 1 C.
16
and
2. Negative charge flows from the larger

sphere to the smaller sphere until the electric field at the surface of each sphere is the
same.
3. Negative charge flows from the larger
sphere to the smaller sphere until the electric potential of each sphere is the same.
4. Negative charge flows from the smaller
sphere to the larger sphere until the electric field at the surface of each sphere is the
same.
5. Negative charge flows from the smaller
sphere to the larger sphere until the electric
potential of each sphere is the same. correct
The voltage difference is

V =
W
120 J
=
= 120 V .
q
1C
Explanation:
When the wire is connected, charge will flow
until each surface is at the same potential.
When disconnected the potential of each
17
sphere is given by
V =

Consider the figure
C
ke q
.
r
The smaller sphere is at a more negative potential than the larger sphere, so negative
charge will flow from the smaller sphere to
the large one until they are at the same potential.
keywords:
Equipotential Surfaces 02
fixed.
Consider the figure
+Q
A Q
+
y
+
x
+
+ C D
+
#1
B #2
B
+
+q
D
Of the following elements, identify all that
correspond to an equipotential line or surface.
1. line AB only
2. line CD only correct
3. both AB and CD
4. neither AB nor CD
Explanation:
Consider the electric field:
C
Of the following elements, identify all that

correspond to an equipotential line or surface.
1. line AB only correct

2. line CD only
3. both AB and CD
An equipotential line or surface (CD) is

normal to the electric field lines.
4. neither AB nor CD
Explanation:
Consider the electric field
+Q
A Q
+
y
+
+ C D
+
#1
B #2
keywords:
An equipotential line or surface (AB) is

normal to the electric field lines.
Starting a Car 03
The gap between electrodes in a spark plug
is 0.06 cm. To produce an electric spark
in a gasoline-air mixture, an electric field of
3 106 V/m must be achieved.
On starting a car, what is the magnitude of
the minimum voltage difference that must be

supplied by the ignition circuit?
Explanation:
Let : E = 3 106 V/m and
d = 0.06 cm = 0.0006 m .
Assuming the electric field between the two
electrodes is constant, then the potential difference between the electrodes is
V =Ed
= 3 106 V/m (0.0006 m)

= 1800 V .
keywords:
keywords:
Point Charge
At distance r from a point charge q, the electric potential is 600 V and the magnitude of
the electric field is 200 N/C.
Determine the value of q.
Explanation:
ke = 8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 ,

V = 600 V , and
e = 200 N/C .
Let :
Accelerating an Electron
Through what potential difference would an
electron need to be accelerated for it to
achieve a speed of 4 % of the speed of light
(2.99792 108 m/s), starting from rest?
Correct answer: 408.799 V.
Explanation:
s = 4 % = 0.04 ,
c = 2.99792 108 m/s ,
me = 9.10939 1031 kg , and
qe = 1.60218 1019 C .
The speed of the electron is
v = 0.04 c
= 0.04 2.99792 108 m/s
ke q
ke q
V
E = 2 and V =
, so that
= r.
r
r
E
The potential is
V =
Let :
= 1.19917 107 m/s ,

By conservation of energy
1
me v 2 = (qe ) V
2
v2
V = me
2 qe
= 9.10939 1031 kg
2
1.19917 107 m/s
2 (1.60218 1019 C)
= 408.799 V .
18
q=
=
ke q
ke q E
ke q
= V =
r
V
E
V2
ke E
(600 V)2
(8.98755 109 N m2 /C2 ) (200 N/C)
= 2.00277 107 C .
keywords:
Conducting Spheres 02
wording-variable.
Consider two solid conducting spheres with
radii r1 = 4 R and r2 = 3 R ; i.e.,
3R
3
r2
=
= .
r1
4R
4

The two spheres are separated by a large
distance so that the field and the potential at
the surface of sphere #1 only depends on the
charge on #1 and the corresponding quantities on #2 only depend on the charge on
#2.
Place an equal amount of charge on both
spheres, q1 = q2 = Q .
r1
r2
q1
#1
q2
#2
After the electrostatic equilibrium on each

sphere has been established, what is the ratio
V2
at the centers of the
of the potentials
V1
two solid conducting spheres?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
V2
V1
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
4
correct
3
3
4
3
2
3
8
16
9
9
16
9
8
9
32
=1
Explanation:
For a solid conducting sphere, the charge is
uniformly distributed at the surface. From
Gauss Law, the electric field outside the
Q
sphere is given by E(r) = k 2 , where Q
r
is the total charge on the sphere and r is the
distance from the center of the sphere. By integration with respect to r, the potential can
19
Q
be expressed as V (r) = k , so the potential
r
at the surface of the sphere is
V (r) = k
Q
,
r
(1)
where R is radius of the sphere and r R .

For the electrostatic case, the potential is
constant throughout a conducting body, so
the potential at the center is the same as
anywhere on the conductor.
Thus at two centers
q2
k
V2
r2
=
q1
V1
k
r1
r1
=
r2
4R
=
3R
4
=
.
3
What is the ratio of the electric fields
the surfaces of the two spheres?
E2
16
=
correct
E1
9
9
E2
=
2.
E1
16
9
E2
3.
=
E1
8
E2
9
4.
=
E1
32
E2
4
5.
=
E1
3
E2
3
6.
=
E1
4
E2
3
7.
=
E1
2
E2
3
8.
=
E1
8
E2
9.
=1
E1
Explanation:
1.
E2
at
E1

For a conducting sphere, the charge is uniformly distributed at the surface. Based on
Gauss law, the electric field on the surface of
a conducting sphere of radius R with charge
Q is
E(r) = ke
Q
,
r2
where r R .
(2)
Thus on the surface r = R of the two

spheres,
q2
r22
E2
=
q1
E1
k 2
r1
2
r1
=
r2
2
4R
=
3R
2
4
=
3
k
q1
16
.
9
q2
#2
There will be a flow of charge through the

wire until equilibrium is established.
E2
What is the ratio of the electric fields
at
E1
the surfaces of the two spheres?
E2
E1
E2
2.
E1
E2
3.
E1
E2
4.
E1
1.
4
correct
3
3
=
4
3
=
2
3
=
8
=
16
E2
=
E1
9
E2
9
6.
=
E1
16
9
E2
=
7.
E1
8
9
E2
=
8.
E1
32
E2
9.
=1
E1
Explanation:
When the spheres are connected by a wire,
charge will flow from one to the other until
the potential on both spheres is the same.
V2
As noted,
= 1, defines equilibrium.
V1
The spheres are connected by a wire and no
current is flowing (at equilibrium), therefore
the ends of the wire are at the same potential
5.
V2 = V 1 .

Now connect the two spheres with a wire.
r1
r2
#1
20
(3)
For a conducting sphere, the charge is uniformly distributed at the surface. Based on
Gauss law, on the surface of a conducting
sphere of radius R with charge Q is
Q
, where r R ,
r2
Q
V (r) = k , where r R .
r
E(r) = ke
and
Thus on the surface r = R of the two

spheres,
q2
r22
E2
=
q1
E1
k 2
r1
q2 1
k
r2 r2
=
q1 1
k
r1 r1
1
V2
r2
,
=
1
V1
r1
r1
=
r2
k
(4)
since V1 = V2

7
q1 = 2 Q
4
8
q1 =
Q .
7
4R
3R
4
=
.
3
=
6
And the charge on sphere # 2 is q2 = Q ,
7
6
8
since q1 + q2 = Q + Q = 2 Q .
7
7
Check Eq. 4: On the surfaces of the two
spheres,
2
q2
r1
E2
=
E1
q1
r2
6
2
Q
7 4R
=
8 3R
Q
7
2
3
4
=
4
3

Now, what is the charge q1 on sphere #1?
1. q1 =
2. q1 =
3. q1 =
4. q1 =
5. q1 =
6. q1 =
7. q1 =
8. q1 =
8
Q correct
7
6
Q
7
7
Q
8
7
Q
6
4
Q
7
3
Q
7
7
Q
4
7
Q
3
4
.
3
Third of eighteen versions.
=
keywords:
9. q1 = Q
Explanation:
When the spheres are connected by a wire,
charge will flow from one to the other until
the potential on both spheres is the same.
In this case, this implies that
ke
q1
q2
= ke ,
r1
r2
r2
q1
q2 =
r1
3R
=
q1
4R
3
= q1 .
4
or
Change in Potential e2
25:04, calculus, multiple choice, < 1 min, normal.
A uniform electric field of magnitude 250 V/m
is directed in the positive x-direction. Suppose a 12 C charge moves from the origin to
point A at the coordinates, (20 cm, 50 cm).
y
250 V/m
(20 cm, 50 cm)
A
(5)
The total charge of the system remains constant; i.e., from the initial condition q1 =
q2 = Q, the total change on both spheres is
q1 + q2 = 2 Q. Using q2 from Eq. 5, we have
q1 + q 2 = 2 Q
3
q1 + q1 = 2 Q
4
21
What is the absolute value of the change in

potential from the origin to point A?
Explanation:
Let :
x = 20 cm ,
y = 50 cm ,
and
~ = 250 V/m .
kEk

The potential difference from O to A is
defined as
Z A
~ d~s .
V = VA VO =
E
22
which is the same as the result for the other

path.
~ = (250 V/m) . We need

We know that E
to choose a path to integrate along. Because
the electric force is conservative, it doesnt
matter which path we take; they all give the
same answer. There are two choices of path
for which the math is simple (see the figure
below.)
y
E
(x, y) A
II
I
Potential Diagrams 02
wording-variable.
Consider a sphere with radius R and charge
Q
keywords:
Path I:
VA VO = (VA VB ) + (VB VO ),
~ and d~s are both along the
From O to B, E
~ d~s = E dx. From B to A, E
~ and
x-axis, so E
~
d~s are perpendicular, so E d~s = 0.
Z B
Z A
~ d~s
~ d~s
VA V O =
E
E
O
B
Z x
Z y
=
E dx
0 dy
0
0
Z x
= E
dx = E x
and the following graphs:
Q.
0
= (250 V/m) (0.2 m)

= 50 V .
1
r
1
r
G.
The absolute value is

0
|V | = 50 V .
~ d~s = E cos ds .
Path II: In this case, E
x
where cos =
x = l cos .
l
Z l
VA VO = E cos
ds
O
= E l cos
= E x .
1
r2
X.
0
1
r
23
1. Y correct
2. S
P.
3. L
0
1
r
4. X
5. Z
6. G
Z.
0
8. P
1
r
9. M
1
2
r
M.
0
1
r2
Y.
0
1
r2
S.
0
1
r2
L.
0
7. Q
Which diagram describes the electric field

vs radial distance [E(r) function] for a conducting sphere?
Explanation:
The electric field for R < r with
the sphere conducting and/or uniformly
non-conducting: Because the charge distribution is spherically symmetric, we select a
spherical gaussian surface of radius R < r,
concentric with the conducting sphere. The
electric field due to the conducting sphere is
directed radially outward by symmetry and is
therefore normal to the surface at every point.
~ is parallel to dA
~ at each point. ThereThus, E
~
~
fore E dA = E dA and Gausss law, where E
is constant everywhere on the surface, gives
I
~ dA
~
E = E
I
= E dA
I
=E
dA
qin
= E 4 r2 =
,
0
where we have used the fact that the surface
area of a sphere A = 4 r 2 . Now, we solve for
the electric field
qin
E=
4 0 r 2
Q
=
, where R < r . (1)
4 0 r 2
This is the familiar electric field due to a point
charge that was used to develop Coulombs
law.

The electric field for r < R with the
sphere conducting: In the region inside
the conducting sphere, we select a spherical
gaussian surface r < R, concentric with the
conducting sphere. To apply Gausss law
in this situation, we realize that there is no
charge within the gaussian surface (qin = 0),
which implies that
E= 0 ,
where
r < R.
(2)
1
r2
as in Part 1.
The electric field for r < R with the
sphere uniformly non-conducting: In
this case we select a spherical gaussian surface at a radius r where r < R, concentric
with the uniformly charged non-conducting
sphere. Let us denote the volume of this
sphere by V 0 . To apply Gausss law in this
situation, it is important to recognize that the
charge qin within the gaussian surface of the
volume V 0 is less than Q. Using the volume
Q
charge density , we calculate qin :
V
Y.
0
qin = V 0
4
3
.
r
=
3
24

Which diagram describes the electric field vs
radial distance [E(r) function] for a uniformly
charged non-conducting sphere?
1. S correct
By symmetry, the magnitude of the electric

field is constant everywhere on the spherical
gaussian surface and is normal to the surface
at each point. Therefore, Gausss law in the
region r < R gives
I
2. L
E dA = E
3. X
4. Z
dA
qin
= E 4 r2 =
.
0
Solving for E gives
5. G
qin
4 0 r 2
4
r3
= 3
4 0 r 2
=
r.
3 0
E=
6. Q
7. P
8. Y
9. M
Explanation:
The electric field for R < r with
non-conducting: In the region outside the
uniformly charged non-conducting sphere, we
have the same conditions as for the conducting sphere when applying Gausss law, so
E=
Q
,
4 0 r 2
where
R < r,
(1)
Q
(by definition) and since
4
R3
3
1
k=
, this expression for E can be writ4 0
ten as
Because =
Qr
4 0 R 3
kQ
r , where
=
R3
E=
R < r.
(3)

Note: This result for E differs from the one we
obtained in the Part 3. It shows that E 0
as r 0. Therefore, the result eliminates the
problem that would exist at r = 0 if E varied
1
as 2 inside the sphere as it does outside the
r
1
sphere. That is, if E 2 for r < R, the field
r
would be infinite at r = 0, which is physically
impossible. Note: Also the expressions for
Parts 1 and 2 match when r = R.
1
E 2
r
E
S.
0

Which diagram describes the electric potential vs radial distance [V (r) function] for a
conducting sphere?
25
when Q is positive.
In this case, to obtain the electric potential
at an exterior point, we use the definition for
electric potential:
Z r
E dr
V =
Z r
dr
= k Q
2
r
= k
Q
,
r
where
R < r.
(4)
Note: This result is identical to the expression

for the electric potential due to a point charge.
The electric potential for r < R with
the sphere conducting: In the region inside
the conducting sphere, the electric field E =
0 . Therefore the electric potential everywhere
inside the conducting sphere is constant; that
is
V = V (R) = constant ,
where
1. Z correct
2. G
R < r.
(5)
1
r
3. Q
Z.
4. P
5. Y

Which diagram describes the electric potential vs radial distance [V (r) function] for a
uniformly charged non-conducting sphere?
6. S
7. L
8. X
1. G correct
9. M
2. Q
Explanation:
The electric potential for R < r with
non-conducting: In the previous parts we
found that the magnitude of the electric field
outside a charged sphere of radius R is
Q
, where R < r ,
r2
where the field is directed radially outward
E=k
3. P
4. Y
5. S
6. L
7. X
Q
3 r2 ,
2R
= k
8. Z
9. M
Explanation:
The electric potential for R < r with
non-conducting: In the region outside the
uniformly charged non-conducting sphere, we
have the same conditions as for the conducting sphere when applying the definition for
the electric potential; therefore,
Z r
E dr
V =
Z r
dr
= k Q
2
r
= k
Q
,
r
where
R < r.
(4)
The electric potential for r < R with

the sphere uniformly non-conducting:
Because the potential must be continuous at
r = R , we can use this expression to obtain
the potential at the surface of the sphere; i.e.,
the potential at a point on the conducting
Q
sphere is V = k
r
From Part 2 we found that the electric field
inside an uniformly charged non-conducting
sphere is
kQ
r , where r < R .
(6)
R3
We can use this result in the definition for
the electric potential to evaluate the potential
Q
as
difference V = Vr VR (where VR = k
R
shown in Eq. 4) at some interior point of the
sphere, so
E=
Vr = VR + V
Z r
Q
=k
E dr
R
R
Z
Q r
Q
r dr , from Eq. 6
k 3
=k
R
R R
2Q
Q 2
2
=k
+k
R
r
2R
2 R3
Q 2
3Q
k
r
=k
2R
2 R3
26
where
r < R.
1
r
G.
0
keywords:
Finding Zero Potential
fixed.
All of the charges shown are of equal magnitude.
+q
a
(a)
What is the electric potential E at the origin? Assume zero potential at infinity.
1. zero correct
2. positive
3. negative
Explanation:
We know that the potential due to a collection of N point charges is given by
N
1 X qi
V =
4 0
r
i=1 i
1
q q
=
+
=0
4 0 a
a

a
27
3. negative
Explanation:
q
+q
2a
1
V =
4 0
+q
(b)
What is the electric potential E at the origin?
q q q
+
+
2a 2a a
=0
+q
1. zero
a
2. positive correct
q
3. negative
2a
2a
+q
Explanation:
1
V =
4 0
q q
q
+ +
a
a 2a
>0
(d)
1. zero correct
2. positive
q
a
3. negative
2a
Explanation:
+q
2a
q
(c)
1. zero correct
2. positive
1
V =
4 0
q
q
q
+
+
a
2a 2a
= 0.
keywords:
Charge on a Capacitor

A 15 pF capacitor is connected across a 75 V
source.
What charge is stored on it?
Explanation:
C = 15 pF = 1.5 1011 F and
V = 75 V .
Let :
The capacitance is
q
V
q =CV
= (1.5 1011 F) (75 V)
C=
= 1.125 109 C
keywords:
Capacitance Comparison 02
fixed.
A parallel plate capacitor is connected to a
battery.
+Q
5. None of these.
Explanation:
The capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor is
A
C = 0 .
d
Hence doubling d halves the capacitance,
and Q = C V is also halved
A
1
A
1
0
C = 0
= 0
= C .
2d
2
d
2
keywords:
Plate Separation
A parallel-plate capacitor has a plate area of
12 cm2 and a capacitance of 7 pF.
The permittivity of a vacuum is 8.85419
12 2
10
C /N m2 .
What is the plate separation?
Correct answer: 0.00151786 m.
Explanation:
Let :
A = 12 cm2 = 0.0012 m2 ,
C = 7 pF = 7 1012 F , and
0 = 8.85419 1012 C2 /N m2 .
2d
If we double the plate separation,

1. the capacitance is doubled.
2. the electric field is doubled.
0 A
d
0 A
d=
C
8.85419 1012 C2 /N m2
=
7 1012 F
0.0012 m2
C=
= 0.00151786 m .
3. the potential difference is halved.

keywords:
4. the charge on each plate is halved. correct
28
AP B 1993 MC 15 16

fixed.
Consider the circuit
2 F
3 F
c
a
b
5 F
4 F
C12 C3
C3 + C12
(6 F) (3 F)
=
6 F + 3 F
= 2 F .
C123 =
C123 and C4 are parallel, so

C = C4 + C123
= 7 F .
100 V
What is the equivalent capacitance for this

network?
10
F
7
3
= F
2
7
= F
3

What is the charge stored in the 5-F lowerright capacitor?
1. Cequivalent =
1. Q1 = 360 C
2. Cequivalent
2. Q1 = 500 C correct
3. Cequivalent
29
3. Q1 = 710 C
4. Cequivalent = 7 F correct
4. Q1 = 1, 100 C
5. Cequivalent = 14 F
5. Q1 = 1, 800 C
Explanation:
Explanation:
C1
c
C3
Let :
b
C2
C4
EB
C4 = 5 F and
EB = 100 V .
The charge stored in a capacitor is given by

Q = C V , so,
Q4 = C 4 V
= (5 F) (100 V)
Let :
C1
C2
C3
C4
EB
= 2 F ,
= 4 F ,
= 3 F ,
= 5 F , and
= 100 V .
The equivalent capacitance of capacitors C1

and C2 (parallel) is C12 = C1 + C2 = 6 F .
C12 and C3 are in series, so
1
1
1
C3 + C12
=
+
=
C123
C12 C3
C12 C3
= 500 C .
keywords:
Capacitor Circuit 02
A capacitor network is shown below.

so
Cx = 9 F = 9 106 F and
EB = V = 100 V .
Cc
Ce
Cx
y
ER
Cb
Ca
z
Cf
For capacitors in series,
1
Cseries
Vseries
Cd
X 1
C
X i
=
Vi ,
=
and the individual charges are the same.

For parallel capacitors,
Cparallel =
Qparallel =
Ci
Qi ,
and the individual voltages are the same.
Cbcd
Ce
Cx
Cbcde
= 15 F ,
= 15 F ,
= 15 F ,
= 15 F ,
= 15 F ,
= 15 F ,
z
Cf
The capacitors Ca , Cbcde and Cf are in series,
so
1
3
1
11
1
+ =
= +
Cabcdef
C 4C C
4C
4
Cabcdef =
C.
11
This reduces the circuit to
y
Cabcdef
=C
=C
=C
=C
=C
=C
Cx
Ca
Cb
Cc
Cd
Ce
Cf
Cf
The capacitors Ce and Cbcd are parallel, so
1
4
Cbcde = C + Cbcd = C + C = C .
3
3
Ca
y
Cx
Let :
ER
15 F
15 F
What is the equivalent capacitance between
points y and z of the entire capacitor network?
Correct answer: 14.4545 F.
Explanation:
ER
1
1
1
1
3
= + + =
Cbcd
C C C
C
1
Cbcd = C .
3
Ca
y
ER
100 V
9 F
15 F
The capacitors Cb , Cc , and Cd are in series,
15 F
15 F
15 F
30
z
These capacitors are parallel, so
Cyz = Cx + Cabcdef
4
= Cx +
C
11
4
= 9 F +
(15 F)
11
= 14.4545 F .

Case Two
C1
C0 2

What is the charge on the 9 F capacitor
centered on the left directly between points y
and z?
Correct answer: 0.0009 C.
Explanation:
q
C
V
q = Cx V
= (9 106 F) (100 V)
= 0.0009 C .
V
0
C12
of the resultant capacitances is
C12
The ratio
1. None of these.
0
C12
2
=
.
C12
1+
C0
3. 12 = .
C12
C0
1+
4. 12 =
.
C12
2
1+
C0
.
5. 12 =
C12
2
2
C0
. correct
6. 12 =
C12
1+
Explanation:
2.
keywords:
Capacitors in Series
fixed.
Consider the two cases shown below. In Case
One two identical capacitors are connected to
a battery with emf V . In Case Two, a dielectric slab with dielectric constant fills the
gap of capacitor C2 . Let C be the resultant
capacitance for Case One and C 0 the resultant capacitance for Case Two.
Case One
C1
C2
Let : C1 = C2 = C and
C20 = C2 = C ,
where is dielectric constant.
V = constant. C1 and C2 are in series, so
1
1
1
C2 + C 1
=
+
=
C12
C1 C2
C1 C2
C1 C2
C12 =
.
C1 + C 2
For Case One,
C12 =
C1 C2
C2
C
=
= .
C1 + C 2
2C
2
For Case Two,

V
31
0
=
C12
C1 C20
C
C2
=
.
=
0
C1 + C 2
(1 + ) C
1+

Therefore
0
C12
2
=
.
C12
1+

V20
of potential differences across
The ratio
V2
capacitor C2 for the two cases is
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
V20
V2
V20
V2
V20
V2
V20
V2
V20
V2
2
.
1+
6. None of these.
Explanation:
For Case One,
V2 =
V C12
V
Q2
=
= .
C2
C2
2
For Case Two,

V20 =
0
Q02
V C12
=
C20
C20
C
V 1+
V
=
.
=
C
1+
Therefore
2
V20
=
.
V2
1+

U0
of total energy stored in the
The ratio
U
capacitors for the two cases is
1. None of these
U0
2
=
.
U
1+
U0
= .
3.
U
2.
U0
1+
=
.
U
2
1+
U0
=
.
5.
U
2
2
U0
=
. correct
6.
U
1+
Explanation:
For Case One,
4.
U=
1
C12 V 2 .
2
U0 =
1 0
C12 V 2 .
2
= .
2
=
. correct
1+
1+
=
.
2
1+
=
.
2
32
For Case Two,
Therefore
C0
2
U0
= 12 =
.
U
C12
1+
keywords:
Dielectric in a Capacitor 01
wording-variable.
a) An isolated capacitor has a dielectric slab
between its plates.
b) The capacitor is charged by a battery.
c) After the capacitor is charged, the battery
is removed.
d) The dielectric slab is then moved half way
out of the capacitor.
e) Finally, the dielectric is released and is set
free to move on its own.
The dielectric will

1. be pulled back into the capacitor. correct
2. remain in place.
33
3. be pushed out of the capacitor.

Explanation:
The capacitance of a capacitor with a dielectric slab is
Cin = Cout ,
where > 1 .
NOTE
When the battery is removed, the charge
on the plates of the capacitor will remain
constant. Charge is neither created nor destroyed.
(c)
(d)
For which situation(s) shown above is the

net force on the dipole equal to zero?
1. (a) only
2. (c) only
4. (a) and (c)

5. (b) and (d)
6. (a) and (d)
7. (a), (b), and (c)
8. (b), (c), and (d)
where Uout is with an air-filled gap and Uin

is with a dielectric-filled gap. A system will
move to a position of lower potential energy.
After the dielectric is moved half way out
of the capacitor, the potential energy stored
in the capacitor will be larger than it would
have been with the dielectric left in place.
Therefore, the dielectric will be pulled back
into the capacitor.
keywords:
Dipole in an External Field 0
fixed.
A dipole (electrically neutral) is placed in an
external field.
9. Another combination
10. None of these
Explanation:
Basic Concepts: Field patterns of point
charge and parallel plates of infinite extent.
The force on a charge in the electric field is
given by
~ = qE
~
F
and the torque is defined as
~ = ~r F
~
T
~ =
E
(b)
~ =
E
3. (c) and (d) correct
1 Q2
Uout =
, and
2 Cout
1 Q2
Uin =
2 Cin
1 Q2
=
2 Cout
1
= Uout , so
Uin < Uout ,
(a)
k q
r
r2
~i.
E
Symmetry of the configuration will cause

some component of the electric field to be
zero.

Gauss law states
I
~ dA
~ = Q.
S = E
0
Solutions: The electric dipole consists of
two equal and opposite charges separated by
a distance. In either situation (c) or (d), the
electric field is uniform and parallel everywhere. Thus, the electric force on one charge
is equal but opposite to that on another so
that the net force on the whole dipole is zero.
By contrast, electric fields are nonuniform for
situations both (a) and (b).
keywords:
34

Electric Potential 4

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Version One Homework 1 Juyang Huang 24018 Jan 16, 2008

This print-out should have 66 questions.

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013 (part 2 of 3) 10 points

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014 (part 3 of 3) 10 points

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1 106 C/m3 (0.01 m)

Uniformly Charged Sphere 04

Consider a sphere, which is an insulator, where charge is uniformly distributed

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019 (part 2 of 2) 10 points

Version One Homework 1 Juyang Huang 24018 Jan 16, 2008

021 (part 2 of 3) 10 points

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Version One Homework 1 Juyang Huang 24018 Jan 16, 2008

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Version One Homework 1 Juyang Huang 24018 Jan 16, 2008

030 (part 2 of 2) 10 points

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