Consider a region of space in which the equipotentials are as drawn in the Figure. Which of the following vectors best describes the force experienced by an electron positioned at point P?

Question

Qu4-Pic5-UP2-2020
A) Quiz15-4-Pic1-1
D) Quiz15-4-Pic1-4

c) Quiz15-4-Pic1-3
B) Quiz15-4-Pic1-2
E) Since it is on an equipotential it will experience no force

Answer 1

To determine the force experienced by an electron positioned at point P in a region of space characterized by equipotential lines, we need to recall the fundamental concept that:

1. The electric field (\(E\)) is always directed from higher potential to lower potential.
2. The force (\(F\)) on a charged particle in an electric field is given by \(F = qE\), where \(q\) is the charge of the particle. For an electron, which has a negative charge, the force will be directed opposite to the direction of the electric field.

Since the electron is on an equipotential surface, there is no difference in electric potential at that location. Therefore, the electric field is zero at that point. As a result, the force exerted on the electron is also zero.

Therefore, the correct statement is:

E) Since it is on an equipotential, it will experience no force.