An isolated particle of charge +q moves along the x–axis in a region where the…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance · Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance
Problem
An isolated particle of charge +q moves along the x–axis in a region where the electric potential V(x) varies with position as follows:
• From x = 0 cm to x = 4 cm, V decreases linearly from 12 V to 4 V.
• From x = 4 cm to x = 8 cm, V remains constant at 4 V.
Assume no non-electrostatic forces act on the particle.
(a) Describe how the electric potential energy of the particle changes as it travels from x = 0 cm to x = 4 cm. Explain your reasoning in terms of the given potential function.
(b) For each of the two regions (0 cm < x < 4 cm and 4 cm < x < 8 cm), state whether the particle’s kinetic energy increases, decreases, or remains constant. Justify each answer using appropriate energy arguments.
(c) Identify the region(s) where the particle experiences a non-zero electric field. Explain how the information in the potential graph leads to your conclusion.