Physics

Physics

Problem

Answer the following questions about the electric potential of a short dipole of charges ±q\pm q separated by distance 2a2a in free space. a. (i) Starting from the definition of electric potential as work done per unit test charge, derive an expression for the potential at a distant point whose position vector makes an angle θ\theta with the dipole axis. b. (ii) Compare the distance-dependence of the potential of a dipole with that of an isolated point charge. Explain physically why the two dependences differ. c. (iii) A dipole of moment 2.5×10−8 C m2.5\times10^{-8}\,\text{C\,m} produces a potential of 200 V200\,\text{V} at a point on its axis in air. Calculate the distance of this point from the centre of the dipole.

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