Question

a dipole of moment p=Qa coul-m is aligned parallel to an electric field along the x axis. The field is non-uniform and varies in magnitude lineary along the x axis with a rate of change dE/dx=K. find the force on the dipole. ​

Answer 1

F = Qa*K

Step-by-step explanation:

The force on the dipole is expressed as the negative gradient of the potential energy.

Thus;

Force; F = -dU/dx

Now, the potential energy is given as;

U = -pE

So, dU/dx = -pdE/dx

Since F = -dU/dx

Then, F = p*dE/dx

We are given p = Qa

Then;

F = Qa(dE/dx)

We are given that dE/dx = K

Thus;

F = Qa*K