Electric Dipole

The behavior of a dipole in an electric field depends on whether the field is uniform or non-uniform. In a uniform field, the forces on the (+q) and (-q) charges are equal and opposite, giving zero net force, but they create a couple (torque) given by (\tau = pE\sin\theta). In a non-uniform field, the forces on (+q) and (-q) are different in magnitude because they experience different field strengths at their respective locations. This produces a net translational force (F = p \frac{dE}{dx}) along the field gradient direction. Simultaneously, since the forces are not collinear in general, there is also a torque about the dipole centre. Therefore, in a non-uniform field, both net force and torque can simultaneously be non-zero. Option 'Both zero' is incorrect because even a uniform field produces torque on a non-aligned dipole. Option 'Zero force, non-zero torque' describes a uniform field situation, not a non-uniform one. Option 'Non-zero force, zero torque' is incorrect because torque can exist whenever (\vec{p}) is not aligned with the local field. This is a JEE Advanced conceptual question on dipole dynamics. Plausibility check: the gradient force on a dipole is the basis of molecular attraction in non-uniform fields, confirming both effects can coexist.