Question
Distinguish between electric potential and potential energy.
Solution
Electric potential at a point is defined as the amount of work done, in moving a unit positive charge with zero acceleration from infinity to that point.
Potential energy at a position is equal to the amount of work done to carry the total charge from infinity to that position, against the electrostatic forces.
Thus, potential energy = potential x charge.
Potential energy, is the energy possessed by the charge by virtue of its particular position.
