Physics

Physics

Problem

A region of space contains a uniform electric field produced by two large parallel metal plates. The potential of the top plate is +120 V+120\,\text{V}, and the potential of the bottom plate is +20 V+20\,\text{V}. Which statement best describes the direction of the electric field and the motion of a positive test charge released from rest between the plates? a) The electric field points upward, and a positive test charge accelerates upward toward lower electric potential energy. b) The electric field points upward, but a positive test charge accelerates downward because the electric force acts opposite to the field. c) The electric field points downward, and a positive test charge accelerates downward toward lower electric potential energy. d) The electric field points downward, but a positive test charge remains at rest because the potentials cancel out.

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