Question

An electric dipole consists of charges +2e and -2e separated by 0.76 nm. It is in an electric field of strength 4.8 × 106 N/C. Calculate the magnitude of the torque on the dipole when the dipole moment is (a) parallel to, (b) perpendicular to, and (c) antiparallel to the electric field.

Answer 1

Solution:  

Charge Electric dipole = +2e and -2e

length of dipole = 0.76 nm

Dipole moment of dipole =

Electric field strength

Totque on electric dipole  

Solution:(a)

for , angle between dipole moment and electric field is zero

Solution:(b)

for , angle between dipole moment and electric field is 90^o

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Solution:(c)

for , angle between dipole moment and electric field is 180^o