A charge is moved slowly from location P to location R along two different paths: a…
PHYSICS · Single correct · CBSE · Physics · Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance · Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance
Problem
A −4.0μC charge is moved slowly from location P to location R along two different paths: a direct straight-line path and a curved path that passes through an intermediate point Q. The electric potentials at P, Q, and R are 25V, 10V, and −5V, respectively. Which statement best explains why the minimum work that must be done by an external agent is the same for both paths?
(a) Electric potential energy increases in direct proportion to the total distance traveled, so paths of equal length require the same external work.
(b) Because the electric field in the region is essentially uniform, the work depends only on the straight-line displacement, not on the particular route.
(c) Electric potential is a property of position only, so the potential difference ΔV between P and R is the same for any path.
(d) The curved path drops to the lower potential at Q and then rises again, causing the energy gained on one segment to cancel the energy lost on the other, leaving the total work unchanged.