Genius Physics 10th Electrostatics

UNIT # 13 ELECTROSTATICS
‫ن‬
Electrostatics (‫)برق سکو ی‬
The branch of physics that deals with the study of static charges is called
electrostatics.
Q.1: What is electric charge? How objects can be electrified? Describe with the help
of experiments.
Ans: Electric charge
It is the property of a material object due to which it can attract or repel another
object.
Electric charge is the property of sub-atomic particles particularly includes electrons
and protons. Electrons have negative charge, protons have positive charge 1.Same
charges repel while opposite charges attract each other.
Electrification of objects
The process of supplying electrons to an object or losing the electrons from an object
is called electrification of objects or charging. When an object is rubbed (‫ )رگڑنا‬over
another object, the electrons get transferred from one object to another.
Experiment ‫ن‬
Take a plastic rod. Rub it with animal fur (‫ )ج ا وروں کی کھال‬and suspend it horizontally by
a thread. Now take another plastic rod and rub it with animal fur and bring near to
the suspended rod. We will observe that both the rods will repel each other.
Similarly take a glass rod and rub it with silk (‫ )ریشمی کپڑا‬and suspend it horizontally
by a thread. Now take a plastic rod and rub it with animal fur and bring near to the
suspended rod. We will observe that both the rods will attract each other. In the first
activity the charge on both rods is the same and in the second activity the charge on
both rods are not the same. This experiment shows that when we rub one material
to another, they are charged. Material losing electron is positively charged and
material gaining electron is negatively charged. When we rub glass rod to a silk, glass
lose electron and positively charged and silk gain electron and negatively charged. 
**********
Q.2: What is electrostatic induction? Explain.
Ans: Electrostatic induction
A change in distribution of electric charge in an object, caused by the influence of
nearby charges is called electrostatic induction.
Explanation
Whenever a charged body is brought closer to an insulated conductor, the near end
of the conductor develops an unlike charge while the far end of the conductor
develops a like charge. This separation of charges is called electrostatic induction.
Experiment
1
The charge of the electron is about -1.60217733 x 10 -19 C, the charge of the proton is equal
and opposite to that of the electron, both charges are constant.
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Bring two metal spheres A and B and fix them on insulated stands, such that they
touch each other as shown in figure (a). Now bring a negative charge rod near the
sphere “A” as shown in fig-(b). Rod will
attract positive charge toward it and
repel negative charge away from it.
Positive charge will appear on the left
surface of the sphere “A” which is close to
the rod. While negative charge will appear
on the right surface of the sphere “B”.
Now separate the spheres while the rod is
still near the sphere “A”. Now if you test
two spheres, you will find that the two
spheres will be oppositely charged (fig-c).
After removing the rod, the charges are
uniformly distributed over the surfaces of the spheres as shown in fig (d). In this
process an equal and opposite charges appear on each metallic sphere this is called
charging by induction.
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Q.3: What is the function of electroscope? How can we use electroscope to find the
presence and nature of charge on a body?
Ans: Electroscope
A device used for the detection and testing the nature of charge on a body is called
Electroscope.
Construction
It consists of a metallic rod, whose one end is connected
to a disc while at the other end two metal leaves (‫)دھاتی آوراق‬
are attached (made of gold, silver or any other metal). The
lower part is enclosed in a glass case as shown in figure.
Detection of charge
In order to detect charge on a body we touch the metal disc
with it. For example, if we touch it with negatively charged
rod some of its excess electrons will be transferred to the disc
and then they will spread throughout the metal rod and the
metal leaves. The charge then splits into two ways, so that
each leaf is charged to the same polarity. As we know that
like charges repel each other. Therefore charge on the two
gold leaves repels each other, and force them apart, so
indicating that a charge is present.
Similarly if the rod is positively charged, it will attract electrons from the
electroscope, leaving a net positive charge on it. Once again the leaves repel each
other.
Testing the nature of charge

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In order to test the kind of charge on a charged body, the electroscope will have to
be first charged either with a positive charge or with a negative charge. After
charging the electroscope, bring the charge body near the charged electroscope. If
the divergence of the leaves increases then the body will have the same charge as
that on the electroscope. On the other hand, if the divergence of the leaves
decreases, then the charge on the body is opposite to that present on the
electroscope.
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Q.4: State and explain Coulomb’s Law.
Ans: Statement
This law states that “The force of attraction or repulsion between two point charges
is directly proportional to the product of charges and inversely proportional to the
square of distance between them”.
Explanation
Consider two charges “q1” and “q2” are placed at a
distance “r” from each other as shown in figure.
Mathematical representation of Coulomb’s law
F ∝ q1q2 ------------------ (1)
1
F∝ ----------------------- (2)
r2
Combine eq (1) and eq (2)
We get,
q1q2
F∝
r2
Changing the sign of proportionality into equality
q1 q2
F=k --------------- (3)
r2
Equation (3) gives Coulomb’s force, where K is proportionality constant and equals
1
to , the symbol ε0 is called epsilon naught and is known as permittivity 2 of a
4 π εo
vacuum.
The value of k comes 9×109 Nm2/C2 when we take the S.I unit of value of ε0 is
8.854×10-12 C2 N-1 m-2
Other forms of coulomb’s law
1
Putting the value of k = in equation (3) we get,
4 π εo
1 q 1 q2
F=
4 π εo r2

2
Permittivity is the ability of a substance to store electrical energy in an electric field.
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Force in the presence of dielectric medium

If the space between the charges is filled with a non-conducting medium or an
insulator called "dielectric" then the Coulomb's law is expressed as:
1 q1q2
F=
4 π ε r2
Whereε is known as permittivity of dielectric medium.
**********
Q.5: Define the unit of charge?
Ans: Unit of Charge
Ans. Coulomb is the standard unit of charge. One Coulomb of charge is the amount
of charge which attracts or repels an equal charge with a force of 9x10 9 N when
placed in vacuum at distance of one meter from each other. Or one coulomb charge
is equal to 6.42x1018 electrons or protons.
**********
Q.6: Compare coulomb’s law with Newton’s law of gravitation
Ans: Comparison of Coulomb’s law and Newton’s law of gravitation
Mathematical form of Coulomb’s force is,
q1 q2
F=k
r2
Mathematical form Newton’s law of gravitation force is,
m1 m2
F=G
r2
Similarities among the electrical and Gravitation force
 Both forces are the conservative forces3.
 Both forces obey the inverse square law.
 The charge ‘q’ plays the same role in the coulomb’s law that the mass ‘m’
plays in Newton’s law, law of gravitation.
Differences among the electrical and gravitational force
 Electrical force is might be attractive as well as repulsive, while the
gravitational force is only attractive.
 Electrostatic force is medium dependent while the gravitational force lacks
this property.
 The value of gravitational constant is very small while the electrical constant is
very large. It is because of the fact that gravitational force is very weak as
compared to electrical force.
**********

3
Conservative forces are the forces that act on an object and don't cause any energy loss in the
system
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Q.7: What is meant by electric field and electric filed intensity? How the field lines
represent the field for isolated positive and negative point charges?
Ans: Electric field
The region around a charge in which an electric test charge would experience an
electric force is called Electric field.

Electric field intensity

The electric field Intensity at a point is the force experienced by a unit positive
charge placed at that point.
Electric Field Intensity is a vector quantity.
It is denoted by ‘E’.
Mathematically,
F
E=
q
This equation gives the mathematical form of electric field intensity of a point charge
“q”.
The SI unit of electric field intensity is Newton/coulomb (N/C).
Electric Field lines for isolated positive and negative point charges
The direction of electric field intensity in
an electric field can be represented by
drawing lines. These lines are known as
electric lines of force.
The field lines are imaginary lines around a
field charge with an arrow head indicating
the direction of force. The direction of the
lines is radially (‫ )شعاعی ترتیب سے‬outward
for a positive charge and radially inward
for a negative charge. The field lines are closer together where the field is stronger.
Look at the diagram, close to the central charges, the field lines are close together.
This is where the electric field is strongest. Further away from the central charges
where the electric field is weaker, the field lines are more spread out from each
other.
**********
Q.8: What is electric potential? In what units we measure electric potential?
Ans: Electric potential
Electric potential is defined as the amount of work done when a unit positive charge
is moved from infinity to a point in an electric field.
OR
The electric potential energy ‘U’ per unit charge ‘q’ in an electric field is called
electric potential ‘V’.
Mathematically
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U W
V¿ =
q q
Explanation
When the body is charged, either electrons are supplied to it, or they are removed
from it. In both the cases, the work is done. This work is stored in the body in the
form of electric potential. Thus, the body can do the work by exerting a force of
attraction or repulsion on the other charged particles.

Unit of electric potential

The unit of electric potential is volt. Volt is defined as “a body is said to have an
electrical potential of 1 volt if one joule of work is done to charge the body to one
coulomb.
Mathematically
joule
Volt ¿
coulomb
W=1 joule , Q= 1coulomb

1
V ¿ =¿ 1volt
1
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Q.9: Give some practical applications in which electric field are useful.
Ans: Practical applications of electrostatic
Electrostatic phenomena have wide application in daily life.
1. Electrostatic precipitator and dust extraction
An electrostatic phenomenon is used for the separation of smoke and dust
particles from a coal-burning power station by means of an electrostatic precipitator.
For this purpose chimneys have a highly positively charge grid which is usually wire
gauze (‫ )تار سے بنی ہوئی جالی‬and negatively charge plates are used. When smoke rising
from chimney containing smoke and dust particles pass through the positively
charged grid they acquire a positive charge.
These charged particles are attracted by
negatively charged plate and are deposited (‫جمع‬
‫ )ہونا‬on them. Thus the smoke coming out of
chimney is free from dust and other particles.
2. Electro painting
Electrostatic painting uses positively-charged
paint particles from a specialized gun to coat
grounded metal surfaces. A charge is applied in
the barrel of the spray paint gun. As the paint is

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propelled (‫ )دھکیلنا‬through the gun, it rubs against the side of the nozzle and gains a
positive electric charge.
For electrostatic paint to be applied, the metal body needs to be grounded and
negatively charged.
This creates a magnetic attraction to the positively charged paint.
Due to this charge, when the paint leaves the nozzle, it is attracted to the metal body
charge and will stick to it. As a result, a firm (‫مستحکم‬/‫ )پائیدار‬coating of the paint is
forms on the surface of the metal body.
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Q.10: How lighting occurs? How can we safeguard us from lighting hazard?
Ans: Lighting
The phenomenon of lighting occurs due to the large quantity of electric charge which
builds up in the heavy thunderclouds. The thunderclouds are charged by friction
between the water molecules and the air molecules present in the clouds. Lighter,
positively charged particles form at the top of the cloud and heavier, negatively
charged particles sink to the bottom of the cloud.
When the positive and negative charges grow large enough, a giant spark - lightning -
occurs between the two charges
within the cloud. This is like a static
electricity sparks but much bigger.
Most lightning happens inside a
cloud, but sometimes it happens
between the cloud and the ground.
The charges on the thunderclouds is
sufficiently high, it induces opposite
charge on the objects present on
the ground giving rise to a strong
electric field between the cloud and
the ground. Suddenly, the charge in clouds jumps to the ground with a violent (‫)شدید‬
spark and explosion.
Safeguard from lighting hazards
The safest place to be during a thunderstorm is in a well-constructed building. To
prevent lighting from damaging tall building, lighting conductors are used. The
purpose of the lighting conductor is to provide a steady discharge path for a large
amount of negative charge in air to flow from the top of the building to the Earth. In
this way, the chances of lighting damage due to suddden discharge can be
minimized.
Safety Precautions
Even when inside the building, there are safety precautions to take.
 Stay away from doors, windows, and fireplaces.

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 Avoid electronic equipment of all types. Lightning can travel through electrical
systems such as radio and television reception systems.
 Use battery operated appliances only. Avoid handling electrical appliances and
regular telephones (cordless phones and cell phones do not increase the risk of a
lightning strike).
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Q.11: What is a capacitor? Define capacitance and its units.
Ans: Capacitor
Capacitor is a device which is used for storing electric charges.

Construction
A capacitor consists of two metal plates, parallel to each other separated by a very
small distance. The medium between the plates is air or some other insulating
material known as dielectric.
Charging a capacitor
If a capacitor having plate A and plate B is
connected to a battery “V” volts, then the battery
transferred a charge +Q from plate B to plate A,
so that “-Q” charge appears on plate A and +Q
charge appears on plate B. the charge on each
plate attract each other and thus remain bound (
‫پابند‬/‫ )مقید‬within the plates. In this way charge is
stored in a capacitor for long time.
Capacitance of a capacitor
Charge storing capability of a capacitor is called capacitance of capacitor.
Definition: Capacitance of a capacitor is defined as the ratio of the charge stored on
any of the plates of capacitor to the potential between the plates.
Experiments show that the charge store in a capacitor is directly proportion to the
potential difference across the plates of the capacitor
i-e
Q V
Q = CV
Where “C” is constant of proportionality and is known as capacitance of the
capacitor.
Q
Therefore C=
V
Unit of capacitance:
The SI unit of capacitance of a capacitor is Farad (F).
Farad:

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It can be defined as “the capacitance of a capacitor is one farad if one coulomb

charge is stored by the capacitor produces a potential difference of one volt between
the plates.”
Mathematically
Q
C=
V
1coulomb
1C =
1 volt
C = 1 Farad

**********

Q.12: What is series combination of capacitors? How we can we determine

equivalent capacitance for different capacitors connected in series?
Ans: Series combination of capacitors(‫)ک ی پسٹ رز کی سلسلہ وار ج وڑ‬
When the capacitors are connected plate to plate then they are said to be series
combination of the capacitors.
Equivalent Capacitance for different capacitors connected in Series:
Consider three capacitors of capacitance C1, C2 and C3 are connected in series. A
battery of voltage “V” is connected to the circuit. The battery provide a positive
charge “Q” to the left plate of capacitor C1 due to electrostatic induction a negative
charge is induced on the right plate. As a result each capacitor gets an equal amount
of charge Q on each of its plates.
Q1Q2Q3Q------------- (1)
Voltage across each capacitor decreases. The sum of all the
voltage across the capacitors is equal to the total voltage.
V V1V2V3 ------------- (2)

We know that,
Q
Q = CV  V =
C
Therefore each voltage can be written as
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q
V1= , V2 = , V3 = and V¿
C1 C2 C3 Ceq
Put these values in eq (2) we get
Q Q1 Q2 Q3
= + +
Ceq C 1 C 2 C 3

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Q Q Q Q
= + +
Ceq C 1 C2 C 3
Q 1 1 1
=Q( + + )
Ceq C1 C2 C3
1 1 1 1
= + +
Ceq C 1 C2 C 3
For ‘n” number of capacitors connected in series
1 1 1 1 −−−−−−+1
= + + +
Ceq C 1 C2 C 3 Cn
**********
Q.13: What is Parallel combination of capacitors? How
we can we determine equivalent capacitance for
different capacitors connected in parallel ?
‫ت‬
Ans: Parallel combination of capacitor(‫)ک ی پسٹ رز کی م وازی ج وڑ‬
A type of combination of two or more than two
capacitors in which the plates of the capacitors are
connected parallel to each other is called parallel
combination of capacitors.
Equivalent capacitance
for different capacitors connected in parallel:
Consider three capacitors of capacitance C1, C2 and C3 are connected parallel to each
other . A battery of voltage “V” is connected to the circuit. The battery provide a
positive charge “Q” to the left plate of capacitor C1due to electrostatic induction a
negative charge is induced on the right plate and charges distribute on the other
plates similarly.
The voltage across each capacitor remains constant in parallel combination of
capacitors.
V1 = V2 = V3 = V ----------------- (1)
The flow of charge to each capacitor is distributed in parallel combination of
capacitors. The total charge is equal to the sum of charge across each capacitor.
Q = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 ------------------- (2)
We know that,
Q = CV
Therefore each charge can be written as
Q1 = C1V1, Q2 = C2V2,
Q3 = C3V3 and Q = CeqV
Put these values in eq (2)
C eqV = C1V1+ C2V2+ C3V3 ---------------------------- (3)
Putting eq (1) in eq (3) we get
C eqV = C1V+ C2V+ C3V
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CeqV = V(C1+ C2+ C3)

Therefore,
Ceq = C1+ C2+ C3
For "n" numbers of capacitors, we have
CeqC1C2C3Cn
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Q.14: Discuss the various types of capacitors.
Ans. There are two types of capacitors.
1.Fixed capacitors
2.variable capacitors
1.Fixed capacitors
Those capacitors whose parts are fixed by design and its plates are immovable is
called fixed capacitors. The
capacitance of these capacitors
does not change (constant).
Examples of these capacitors are
paper capacitors and mica
capacitors.
‫تغ‬
2. Variable capacitors(‫)م ی ر ک ی پسٹ رز‬
A type of capacitors whose area of the plates can be
changed is called variable capacitors. The capacitance of these
capacitors can be changed by increasing or decreasing the
area between the plates. For example, the capacitors
used in tuning of a radio frequency

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CONCEPTUAL QUESTIONS
Q1. Normally, objects with in large number of electrons are electrically neutral, why?
Ans. An object with in large number of electrons must also have an equal number of
protons, and it makes the whole object electrically neutral.
Explanation
All objects are made of atoms and atoms are electrically neutral because they have
equal numbers of protons (positive charge) and electrons (negative charge). As long
as the numbers of electron and protons are the same, the charges will balance and
the body as whole becomes neutral.
**********
Q2. How does shuffling feet ( ‫ )پاؤں گھسیٹ کرچلنا‬across a carpet cause hair to stand on
our body?

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Ans. When we shuffle our feet across a carpet we are rubbing (‫ )رگڑنا‬electrons off the
carpet and allowing electrons to transfer to our body. These electrons are
accumulates (‫ )جمع ہونا‬on our body’s hair. Our body’s hair repel each other as they
have the same charge, this makes the hair of our body’s to stand up straight.
**********
Q3. Why neutral objects are always attracted by charge objects? Not repelled.
Ans: When a charged object is brought near to a neutral object, opposite charges are
induced on neutral object, therefore they attract each other.
Explanation
When a negatively charged object is brought close to a neutral object, the electrons
that are free to move will move away from the charged object. The region that has
too many electrons is negatively charged,
the other region positively charged of the
neutral object. The positive region is
closer to the negative charged object will
be attracted to this charged object.

Q4.Why the piece of paper initially

attracted by the charge comb fly
away when they
touch it.
Ans. When the comb is nearby, charges separate on the paper, resulting in the paper
being attracted due to induction. When the paper touches the comb, charges from
the comb are transferred to the paper so that it has the same type charge as the
comb, the paper is then repelled.
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Q5. Is it necessary for a charged body actually to touch the ball of the electroscope
for the leaves to diverge? Define your answer.
Ans. No, it is not necessary for a charged body actually to touch the ball of the
electroscope for the leaves to diverge. Explanation:
The leaves of an electroscope diverge due to repulsion between them as both carry
same charge therefore for divergence, production of charge is necessary since the
charge can be produced by induction. Hence it is not necessary for charge body to
touch the electroscope.
**********
Q6. How electrostatic painting is better than conventional spray painting?
Ans. Electrostatic painting is better than conventional spray painting because,
1. Electrostatic paint wrap(‫گھیرنا‬/‫ا‬MM‫ )لپیٹن‬around all parts of the object while
conventional spray covers only the surface area directly in front of the spray
gun.
2. The transfer efficiency of electrostatic spray is high as compared to
conventional spray.
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3. The consumption(‫استعمال‬/‫ )خرچ‬of electrostatic paint is low as compared to

conventional paint.
4. Electrostatic spray creates a better looking finish because the paint is
distributed more evenly and more uniformly.
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Q7. Why are lightning rods normally at a higher elevation than the buildings they
protect?
Ans. Lightning always tends to hit the highest object in its closeness from where the
discharge takes place.
Explanation
Lightning rods are placed at a higher elevation (‫ )بلندی‬than the buildings because
lightning always looks for the shortest, fastest and the least resistant path to ground.
Lightning rods are taller in order to be closer to the clouds, closer to lightning. The
rods provide a low resistance path to Earth for the electrical charge. This means it
would not generate much heat in passing so not starting a fire.
**********
Q8.What would happen if two insulating plates were used instead of conducting
plates to construct a capacitor?
Ans. Capacitors are used to store the charge and it is done by using two
conducting plates if we replace these plates with two insulating plates then it will
not store the charge.
Explanation
In ideal capacitor, the charges get
spread across the plates (one side
positive, and the other side negative)
due to the conductive nature of the
plates.
Now, if the plates are replaced by
insulator, then there is no free
electron to move and to cause charge
separation. So effectively we would
store almost negligible amount of charge. So it will not act like a capacitor.
**********
Q9. The sum of the charges on both plates of a capacitor is zero. What does a
capacitor
store?
Ans.Capacitor stores energy. The sum of the charge is not physically zero
Explanation
A capacitor stores electrons but in an interesting way. One plate is positively charged
and the other plate is negatively charged but both are the same magnitude (example
+10 and -10). It means that the net charge between the two plates does come out to
zero but in reality this does not mean it. The amount of energy stored in this system
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is not equal to the sum of the charges (0) but the difference between the two (for
the above example +10-[-10] = +20).
**********
Q10. If you wish to store a large amount of energy in a capacitor bank, would you
connect capacitors in series or parallel? Explain.
Ans.If we want to store a large amount of energy in a capacitor bank, we would
connect capacitors in parallel combination.
Explanation
Energy stored in a capacitor is given by:
1 2
E= V Ceq
2
It is clear from the above equation that storing energy depends on capacitance, and
for producing large capacitance as possible the capacitors would be connected in
parallel. As capacitance of a parallel combination is:
C eq= C1 + C2 + C3
As equivalent capacitance of parallel combination is larger than that of series combination,
so energy of a system in parallel combination is always larger than series combination.

EXAMPLES AND ASSIGNMENTS

EXAMPLE 13.1: FORCE BETWEEN PROTONS
The two proton and two neutron in the nucleus of helium atom are held together by
the strong force , which is required to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between
the proton, the charge of each proton is q p = 1.6 x 10-19C.A distance of approximately r
= 2x 10-15m separate the two proton. Calculate the magnitude of electr0static force
between the proton?
GIVEN REQUIRED
Charge on proton ‘qp’ = 1.6 x 10-19C Force ‘FE’ = ?
-15
Distance ‘r’ = 2x 10 m
Coulomb constant ‘K’ = 9 x 10-9 Nm2 /C2
SOLUTION Using Coulomb’s law, we can find the force
qp x q p
FE = K
r2
Putting the Value

9
( 1.6 ×10−19 ) ×(1.6 ×10−19 )
FE = 9 × 10
(2× 10−15)2
Hence, FE =57.6 N = 58 N Answer.

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Therefore the two protons in the atomic nucleus of a helium atom push each other
with a force of 58 N.
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ASSIGNMET 13.1: FORCE BETWEEN CHARGED METAL SPHERS
A small metal sphere with a charge of – 2.10 × 10 -6C is brought near an identical
sphere with a positive charge of 1.50 × 10 -6C so that the distance between the
centers of the two spheres is 3.30 cm. Calculate the magnitude of the force that each
charge exerts on the other?
GIVEN REQUIRED
Charge on 1st sphere ‘q1’=-2.1 × 10-6 C Force ‘FE’ = ?
Charge on 1st sphere ‘q2’=1.5 × 10-6 C
Distance ‘r’ = 3.30 cm = 0.033 m
Coulomb constant ‘K’ = 9 x 10 9 Nm2 /C2
SOLUTION
Using Coulomb’s law, we can find the force
q1 x q2
FE = K
r2
Putting the Values
(−2.1× 10−6 ) ×(1.5 ×10−6 )
FE = 9 × 10 9
(0.033)2
Hence, FE = - 26.03 N = - 26 N Answer.
Therefore the force between the two charged metal spheres - 26 N. The negative
sign shows that the force is attractive.
**********
EXAMPLE 13.2: ELECTRIC FIELD INTENSITY
A positive test charge of 30 μC is placed in an electric field. Force on it is
0.600N.What is the magnitude of electric field at the location of test charge?
GIVEN
Test Charge ‘qo’=30 μC = 30 × 10-4 C
Force ‘FE’ = 0.600N
REQUIRED
Electric field intensity ‘E’= ?
SOLUTION
By definition of Electric field intensity
Fϵ
E=
qo
Putting the Values
0.600 N
E=
30 x 10−6 C

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Hence, E = 2.00 × 10-4 NC -1 Answer.

Therefore, the magnitude of electric field is 2 × 10-4 N/C.
**********
ASSIGNMET 13.2: FORCE IN AN ELECTRIC FIELD
If a charge of 4μC is placed in a uniform field of strength 2 NC -1, What force will it
experience?
GIVEN REQUIRED
-6
Charge ‘qo’=4 μC = 4 × 10 C Force ‘FE’ = ?
Electric field intensity ‘E’= 2 N/C
SOLUTION
By definition of Electric field intensity
Fϵ
E= or Fɛ = E × qo
qo
Putting the Values
Fɛ = 2 × 4 × 10 -6
Hence, Fɛ = 8 µN Answer
**********
EXAMPLE 13.3: WORK DONE
How much work must be done by increasing the potential of the charge 2.5 x 10 -7 C
by 100 V?
GIVEN REQUIRED
Charge ‘q’ = 2.5 x 10-7 C Work done ‘W’= ?
Change in potential ' ∆V ' = 100V

SOLUTION
By definition of electric potential
W
V= or W = qV
q
Putting the Values
W = 2.5 × 10-7 C × 100V
Hence, W = 2.5 × 10-5 J Answer
**********
ASSIGNMET 13.3: WORK DONE IN AN ELECTRIC FIELD
SOLUTION
How much work is done in moving a charge of 3C from a point at 118V to a point at
138V in an electric field?
GIVEN REQUIRED
Charge ‘q’ = 3 C Work done ‘W’= ?
Change in potential ' ∆V ' = 138 – 118 = 20 V
SOLUTION
By definition of electric potential
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W
V= or W = qV
q
Putting the Values
W = 3 × 20
Hence, W =60J Answer
**********
EXAMPLE 13.4: CAPACITOR OF MP3 PLAYER
The typical capacitor in an MP3 players has C = 0.10μF. if the charge 5.0μC is placed
on the plates what is the voltage across the capacitor?
GIVEN REQUIRED
Charge q = 5.0μC = 5 x 10-6 C Voltage V = ?
Capacitance C = 0.10μF = 0.10 x 10-6F
SOLUTION
The capacitance of the capacitor is
Q Q
C= or V =
V C
Putting the Values
5× 10−6
V=
0.10 ×10−6
Hence, V= 50 V Answer
Therefore, the voltage across the capacitor in MP3 player is 50V.
**********
EXAMPLE 13.5: SERIES COMBINATION OF CAPACITORS
Two capacitors of 5µF and 10 µF are connected in series with the external source of
voltage in 100 V. Calculate the total capacitance and the potential drop across each
capacitor.

GIVEN
Capacitor C1= 5 µF = 5 × 10 -6 F
Capacitor C2 = 10 µF = 10 × 10 -6 F
Voltage V = 100 V
REQUIRED
Equivalent capacitance Ceq= ?
Potential drop V1 and V2= ?
SOLUTION
For Series combination the equivalent capacitance is
1 1 1 1 C2 +C 1
= + or =
Ce C1 C2 Ce C 1 C 2
C1C2
Or Ce =
C2 +C 1
Putting the values
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5× 10−6 F ×10 ×10−6 F

Ce =
5 ×10−6 F +10 ×10−6 F
50 ×10−12
Ce =
15× 10−6 F
Hence, Ce= 3.33 × 10 -6 F = 3.33 µF Answer
In series combination, the charge remains the same
q1 = q2 = Q.
The charge on each capacitor is
Q = CeV
Putting the values Q = 3.33 × 10 -6 F × 100 V
Hence, Q = 3.33 × 10 -4 C
Therefore, q1 = q2 = Q = 3.33 × 10 -4 C
However, series combination of circuit elements the voltage splits, the voltage
across the capacitor C1 and capacitor C2as V1 and V2 respectively.
Q
V1 =
C1

3.33× 10−4
putting the values V1 =
5 ×10−6
V1 = 0.666 × 102 V = 66.6 V Answer
Q
V2 =
C2
3.33× 10−4
putting the values V2 =
10 ×10−6
V1 = 0.333 × 102 V = 33.3 V Answer
Note that V1 + V2 = 66.6 + 33.3 = 100 = V, that is the battery voltage is split between
the two capacitors.
**********
ASSIGNMET 13.5: SERIES COMBINATION OF CAPACITORS
Two capacitors of capacitance 3 µF and 6 µF are connected in series to a 100 V
battery. Calculate the equivalent capacitance and the voltage across each capacitor.
GIVEN
Capacitor C1= 3 µF = 3 × 10 -6 F
Capacitor C2 = 6 µF = 6 × 10 -6 F
Voltage V = 100 V
Equivalent capacitance Ceq= ?
REQUIRED
Potential drop V1 and V2= ?
SOLUTION
For Series combination the equivalent capacitance is
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1 1 1 1 C2 +C 1
= + or =
Ce C1 C2 Ce C 1 C 2
C1C2
Or Ce =
C2 +C 1
Putting the values
3× 10−6 F ×6 × 10−6 F
Ce =
3 ×10−6 F +6 ×10−6 F
18 ×10−12
Ce =
9 ×10−6 F
Hence, Ce= 2 × 10 -6 F = 3.33 µF Answer
In series combination, the charge remains the same
q1 = q2 = Q.
The charge on each capacitor is Q = CeV
Putting the values Q = 2 × 10 -6 F × 100 V
Hence, Q = 2 × 10 -4 C
Therefore, q1 = q2 = Q = 2 × 10 -4 C
However, series combination of circuit elements the voltage splits, the voltage
across the capacitor C1 and capacitor C2as V1 and V2 respectively.
Q
V1 =
C1
2× 10−4
putting the values V1 =
3 ×10−6
V1 = 0.666 × 102 V = 66.6 V Answer
Q
V2 =
C2
2× 10−4
putting the values V2 =
6 ×10−6
V1 = 0.333 × 102 V = 33.3 V Answer
Note that V1 + V2 = 66.6 + 33.3 = 100 = V, that is the battery voltage is split between
the two capacitors.
**********
EXAMPLES 13.6: PARALLE COMBINATION OF CAPACITORS
Two capacitors of 4 µF and 8 µF are in parallel. In each case the external source of
voltage is 100 V. calculate the total capacitance and the charge on each capacitor.
GIVEN
Capacitor C1= 4 µF = 4 × 10 -6 F
Capacitor C2 = 8 µF = 8 × 10 -6 F
Voltage V = 100 V
REQUIRED
Equivalent capacitance Ceq= ?
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Potential drop Q1 and Q2= ?

SOLUTION
For Parallel combination the equivalent capacitance is
C e = C1 + C 2
Putting the values
Ce = 4 × 10 -6 F + 8 × 10 -6 F
Therefore Ce = 12 × 10 -6 F = 12 µF Answer
In parallel combination the voltage remains the same
V1 = V2 = V
Since the applied voltage V = 100 V, Therefore,
V1 = V2 = V = 100 V
In parallel combination the charge splits, the charge stored in first capacitor C 1 is
q1 = C1V
Putting the values q1 = 4 × 10 -6 C × 100 V
q1 = 400 × 10 -6 C = 400 µC Answer
In the parallel combination the charge splits, the charge stored in second capacitor C 2
is
q2 = C2V
Putting the values q2 = 8 × 10 -6 C × 100 V
q1 = 800 × 10 -6 C = 800 µC Answer
**********
ASSIGNMENT 13.6: PARALLEL COMBINATION OF CAPACITORS
Two capacitors of 3 µF and 6 µF are connected in parallel to a 800 V battery. Find the
equivalent capacitance and the charge on each capacitor.
GIVEN
Capacitor C1= 3 µF = 3 × 10 -6 F
Capacitor C2 = 6 µF = 6 × 10 -6 F
Voltage V = 800 V
REQUIRED
Equivalent capacitance Ceq= ?
Potential drop Q1 and Q2= ?
SOLUTION
For Parallel combination the equivalent capacitance is
C e = C1 + C 2
Putting the values
Ce = 3 × 10 -6 F + 6 × 10 -6 F
Therefore
Ce = 9 × 10 -6 F = 9 µF Answer
In parallel combination the voltage remains the same
V1 = V2 = V
Since the applied voltage V = 800 V, Therefore,
V1 = V2 = V = 800 V

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In parallel combination the charge splits, the charge stored in first capacitor C 1 is
q1 = C1V
Putting the values
q1 = 3 × 10 -6 C × 800 V
q1 = 2400 × 10 -6 C = 2.4 × 10 -3 C = 2.4 mC Answer
In the parallel combination the charge splits, the charge stored in second capacitor C 2
is
q2 = C2V
Putting the values
q2 = 6 × 10 -6 C × 800 V
q1 = 4800 × 10 -6 C = 4.8 × 10 -3 C = 4.8 mC Answer
**********
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS (MCQ,s)

1. When combing our hair, we shift electrons from our hair onto the comb. The
charge on our hair is
A. positive B. negative
C. zero D. infinite
2. The unit of charge is
A. farad B. coulomb
C. volt D. electron volt
3. Initially, sphere A has a charge of -50e and sphere B has a charge of +20e.
The spheres are made of conducting material and are identical in size. If the
spheres then touch, what is the resulting charge on sphere A?
A + 15e B. -15e
C. +35e D. - 35e
4. If the distance between two charged particles is halved, the coulomb force
between the two charged particles becomes
A. half B. one quarter
C. double D. four times
5. The value of coulomb constant K, depends on
A. value of charges
B. material medium
C. separation between charges
D. All of these
6. An additional capacitor is added to a group of capacitors already connected
in series, the equivalent capacitance
A. increase B. stay the same
C. decrease D. goes to zero
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7. The unit of electric potential is

A. farad B. coulomb
C. volt D. NC-1
8. Four identical 1F capacitors are connected together electrically. What is the
least possible capacitance of the combination?
A. 4 F B. 1F
1 1
C. F D. F
4 8
9. A capacitor C has a charge Q. The actual charges on its plates are:
A. Q,Q B. Q,0
Q −Q
C. Q,-Q D. ,
2 2
**********

NUMERICAL QUESTIONS
1. Determine the magnitude of the electric force on the electron of hydrogen
atom exerted by a single proton that is the atom’s nucleus. Assume the average
distance between the electron and proton is r = 5.3 x 10 -11m and charge on electron
and proton is 1.6 x 10-19C.
GIVEN
Charge on electron= qe = - 1.6x10-19C
Charge on proton = qp = 1.6x10-19C
Distance between electron and proton = r = 5.3 x 10-11m
Coulomb’s constant = K = 9x109Nm2/C2
REQUIRED
Magnitude of electric force= F =?
SOLUTION
We know that,
qe q p
F=k
r2
−19 −19
F = 9x109x 1.6 x 10 (−1.6 x 10 )
¿¿
−1.6 x 1.6 x 9 x 10−19−19+9
F=
28.09 x 10−22
−23.04 x 10−29
F=
28.09 x 10−22
F = - 0.82 x 10-29+22
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 Genius Physics 10th Electrostatics

F = - 0.82 x 10-7
F = - 8.2 x 10-8 N
**********
2. A 5C point charge is placed 20 cm from a 10 C point charge. (a) The force
experienced by 5 C charges. (b) The force experienced by 10 C charges. (c) What is
the field strength 20 cm from the 10C point charge?
GIVEN
Charge = q1 = 5 C = 5 x 10 -6 C
Charge = q2 = 10 C = 10 x 10 -6 C
Distance between Charges = r = 20 cm = 0.2m
Coulomb’s constant = K = 9x109Nm2/C2
REQUIRED
(a) Force on 5 C charge = F =?
(b) Force on 10 C charge = F =?
(c) Electric field strength = E =?
SOLUTION
a. To find Force on 5 C charge
We know that,
q1 q2
F=k
r2
5 x 10−6 x 10 x 10−6
F = 9x109x
(0.2)2
9 x 5 x 10 x 10 9−6 −6
F=
0.04
450 x 10−3
F=
0.04
F = 11250 x 10-3
F = 11.25 x 103 x 10-3
F =11.25N Answer
b. Force on 10 C is also 11.25N as both the charges apply equal but oppositely
directed forces on each other.
c) To find Electric Field strength (E)
We know that,
F
E=
q1
11.25
E=
5 x 10−6
E =2.25 x 106 N/C Answer

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 Genius Physics 10th Electrostatics

**********
3. In a certain region of space, a uniform electric field has a magnitude of 4.60 x
4
10 N/C and points in the positive x-direction. Find the magnitude and direction of
the force this field exerts on a charge of (a) +2.80 C (b) 9.30C.
GIVEN
Charge = q1 = +2.80 C = +2.80 x 10 -6 C
Charge = q2 = - 9.30 C = - 9.30 x 10 -6 C
Magnitude of Electric field strength = E = 4.60 x 104 N/C
REQUIRED
(a) Magnitude of force and direction of force on charge q1=?
(b) Magnitude of force and direction of force on charge q2=?
SOLUTION
(a) To find the magnitude of force and direction of force on charge q1
We know that,
F
E=
q1
F = q1E
F = 2.80 x 10 -6 x 4.60 x 104
F = 12.88 x 10-6+4
F = 12.88 x 10-2
F = 0.129 N Answer.
As force is positive, which show that the force is directed towards positive x-
axis.
(b) To find Magnitude of force and direction of force on charge q2 we have,
F = q2E
F = - 9.30 x 10 -6 x 4.60 x 104
F = - 42.78 x 10-6+4
F = - 42.78 x 10-2 = - 42.8 x 10-2
F = - 0.428 N Answer
As force is negative, which show that the force is directed towards negative
x-axis.
**********
4. The potential difference between two points is 110V. When an unknown
charge is moved between these two points, the work done is 550 J. what is the
amount of charge?
GIVEN
Potential difference = V = 110 v
Work done = W = 550 J
REQUIRED
Amount of charge = q =?
SOLUTION
We know that,
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W
V=
q
W
q=
V
550
q=
110
q = 5C Answer
**********
5. The capacitance of capacitor is 3200pF. If the potential difference between its
plates is 220V. What is the charge on each of its plates?
GIVEN
Capacitance = C = 3200pF = 3200 x 10 -12 F
Potential difference = V = 220 v
REQUIRED
Charge on each plate = Q =?
SOLUTION
We know that,
Q = CV
Q = 3200 x 10-12 x 220
Q = 704000 x 10-12
Q = 0.704 x 106 x 10-12
Q = 0.704 x 10-6 C
Q = 0.704 C Answer
**********
6. Three capacitors of capacitance 1F,2F and 3F are connected in series to a 110
V battery. Calculate the equivalent capacitance and voltage across each capacitor.
GIVEN
Capacitance C1= 1F = 1 x 10-6 C
Capacitance C2= 2F = 2 x 10-6 C
Capacitance C3= 3F = 3 x 10-6 C
REQUIRED
(a) Equivalent Capacitance Ceq =?
(b) Voltage across each capacitor
i-e
V1=?
V2=?
V3=?
SOLUTION
a. For series combination of capacitors the equivalent capacitance is given by,
1 1 1 1
= + +
Ceq C 1 C2 C 3
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 Genius Physics 10th Electrostatics

1 1 1 1
= + +
Ceq 1 2 3
1 6+ 3+2
=
Ceq 6
1 11
=
Ceq 6
6
Ceq=
11
Ceq= 0.54 F
Ceq=0.54 x 10-6 F Answer.
In series combination the charge remains the same
The charge on each capacitor is given by,
Q =CeqV
Q = 0.54 x 10-6 x 110
Q =59.5 x 10-6C
b) Now voltage across C1 is given by,
Q
Q = C1V1V1 =
C1
59.5 X 10−6
V1= = 59.5 V
1 X 10−6
V1 = 59.5 V
Now voltage across C2 is given by,
Q
V2 =
C2

59.5 X 10−6
V2 = = 29.75 V
2 X 10−6
V2 = 29.75 V
Now voltage across C3 is given by,
Q
V3 =
C3
−6
59.5 X 10
V3 = = 19.83 V
3 X 10−6
V3 = 19.83 V Answer
**********
7. Two capacitors of capacitance 2pF and 3pF are connected in parallel to a 9 V
battery. Calculate the equivalent capacitance and the charge on each capacitor.
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 Genius Physics 10th Electrostatics

GIVEN
Capacitance C1= 2pF = 2 x 10-12 C
Capacitance C2= 3pF = 3 x 10-12 C
Voltage of the battery = V = 9 v
REQUIRED
(a) Equivalent Capacitance Ceq =?
(b) Charge on each capacitor i-e
Q1=?
Q2=?

SOLUTION
(a) For parallel combination of capacitors the equivalent capacitance is given by,
C eq = C1 + C2
C eq = 2 + 3
C eq = 5pF
C eq = 5 x 10-12 F Answer
(b) Charge on each capacitor
For Q1, we know that,
Q1 = C1V
Q1 = 2 x 9
Q1 = 18 pF
Q1 = 18 x 10-12 F
For Q2, we know that,
Q2 = C2V
Q2 = 3 x 9
Q2 = 27pF
Q2 = 27 x 10-12 F Answer’

**********
End Chapter 4

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