Two charged particles,Q₁ = + 12.0 mC,Q₂ = -5.0mC are placed on a line.At what finite locations along the line may the electric potential be equal to zero? I.in between the particles,closer to the positive particle
II.in between the particles,closer to the negative particle
III.not in between,but closer to the positive particle
IV.not in between,but closer to the negative particle
V.It can never be zero.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electric potential due to a point charge is given by $V = k\frac{Q}{r}$, where $V$ is the potential, $k$ is Coulomb's constant, $Q$ is the charge, and $r$ is the distance from the charge. For the potential to be zero, the potentials due to the two charges must cancel out. This can happen in two scenarios: 1. Between the charges, closer to the negative charge, because the potential due to a positive charge is positive and it decreases with distance, while the potential due to a negative charge is negative and it increases (becomes less negative) as you move away from it. Thus, closer to the negative charge, their potentials can cancel out.2. Outside the line, but closer to the negative charge, because the influence of the negative charge decreases faster due to its smaller magnitude, allowing for a point where the more distant but stronger positive charge's potential can exactly cancel it out.Therefore, options II and IV are correct.

Two Charged Particles,Q1 = + 12

Two Charged Particles,Q₁ = + 12