The graph in the figure shows the variation of the electric potential V(x) (in arbitrary units) as a function of the position x (also in arbitrary units). Which of the choices below correctly describes the orientation of the x-component of the electric field along the x-axis? A) E_x is positive from x = -2 to x = 2. B) E_x is positive from x = -2 to x = 0, and negative from x = 0 to x = 2. C) E_x is negative from x = -2 to x = 0, and positive from x = 0 to x = 2. D) E_x is negative from x = -2 to x = 2.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The x-component of the electric field is given by the slope of the electric potential curve, which is the negative derivative of the electric potential with respect to x. Looking at the graph, we can see that the potential increases (positive slope) from x = -2 to x = 0 and decreases (negative slope) from x = 0 to x = 2. Therefore, the x-component of the electric field is positive from x = -2 to x = 0 and negative from x = 0 to x = 2. Therefore, the correct choice is B.

The Graph in the Figure Shows the Variation of the Electric