Practice question
Question
A charge of \( 3 \, \mu\text{C} \) is brought from infinity to a point where the potential is \( 400 \,
\text{V} \). What is the work done?
Explanation
**Equipotential through midpoint** of +q and -q is perpendicular bisector, V=0 everywhere on it because contributions k q/r and k(-q)/r cancel. For two opposite charges, potential at midpoint zero, but field non-zero, pointing from positive to negative, illustrating vector vs scalar nature. Work done = Potential energy = q V . W = 3 × 10⁻⁶ × 400 = 1.2 × 10⁻³ J = 1.2 mJ . Using V = kQ/r, U = k q₁q₂/r, E = -dV/dr, C = ε₀A/d, 1/C_eq series, C_eq = ΣC parallel, U = ½ C V² and common potential V = Q_total/C_total, result 1.2 mJ follows, reflecting potential-capacitance relations.
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