Potential Energy Two Charges
Mediumphysics
Potential energy of two charges q1 and q2 separated by r?
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Solution
Incorrect! Answer:
k q1 q2 / r
- Work Definition: Potential energy of a system of charges equals the work done to bring the charges from infinite separation to their current positions.
- Process: Bring q1 first (no work). Bring q2 in field of q1.
- Formula: U=q2⋅V1=q2⋅(kq1/r).
- Final Form: U=krq1q2.
- Sign Rule: Energy is positive for like charges (repulsion requires positive work) and negative for unlike charges (attraction results in spontaneous assembly).
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About This Question
- Subject
- physics
- Chapter
- electrostatics
- Topic
- potential energy two charges
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Year
- 2025
Solution
Correct Answer:
k q1 q2 / r
- Work Definition: Potential energy of a system of charges equals the work done to bring the charges from infinite separation to their current positions.
- Process: Bring q1 first (no work). Bring q2 in field of q1.
- Formula: U=q2⋅V1=q2⋅(kq1/r).
- Final Form: U=krq1q2.
- Sign Rule: Energy is positive for like charges (repulsion requires positive work) and negative for unlike charges (attraction results in spontaneous assembly).
This medium difficulty physics question is from the chapter electrostatics, covering the topic of potential energy two charges. It appeared in the 2025 exam.
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