Answer:
3.1 x 10⁻²¹ Nm
Explanation:
When placed in an external electric filed, an electric dipole experiences a torque. and this torque is represented mathematically with the equation:
torque (τ) = dipole moment vector (P) x electric field vector (E)
τ = P. E . sin θ
where θ is the angle between the water molecule and the electric field, which in this case is 90° (because this is where the torque is maximum)
τ = 6.2x10⁻³⁰Cm . 5.0x10⁸ N/C . sin90
τ = 6.2x10⁻³⁰Cm . 5.0x10⁸ N/C . 1
solve for τ
τ = 3.1 x 10⁻²¹ Nm
the maximum possible torque on the water molecule is therefore 3.1 x 10⁻²¹ Nm