Electric Field: Electric Dipole

Question
ICSEENIPH12030210

An electric dipole of dipole moment p is placed in a uniform electric field with its axis inclined to the field. Write an expression for the torque straight tau experienced by the dipole in vector form. Show diagrammatically how the dipole should be kept in the electric field so that torque acting on it is:

i) maximum

ii) zero

Solution

Expression for torque in the vector form is:
straight tau space equals space straight p with rightwards harpoon with barb upwards on top space straight x space straight E with rightwards harpoon with barb upwards on top ;
where,
p is the dipole moment, and
E is the electric field.
i) When torque acting is maximum, dipole should be placed perpendicular to the electric field.
          
ii) When torque acting is zero, dipole is placed parallel to the magnetic field.
                          

Sponsor Area