Considering a group of positive charges, which of the following statements is correct?
- Net potential of the system cannot be zero at a point but net electric field can be zero at that point
- Net potential of the system at a point can be zero but net electric field can't be zero at that point
- Both the net potential and the net field can be zero at a point
- Both the net potential and the net electric field cannot be zero at a point
Solution
As we know, net potential will be algebraic sum of potential due to each charge, so we can write .
As given in the question, and are positive, so
But electric field is a vector quantity, so it can be zero for a given arrangement of charges. For example, electric field at the centre of the two equal charges at certain distance will be zero as electric field due to both charges will be in opposite direction and hence will cancel each other.
Asked in: JEE Main 2023 (31 Jan Shift 2)