As a proton moves in a direction perpendicular to the electric field lines
A) it is moving from low potential to high potential and gaining electric potential energy.
B) it is moving from low potential to high potential and losing electric potential energy.
C) it is moving from high potential to low potential and gaining electric potential energy.
D) it is moving from high potential to low potential and losing electric potential energy.
E) both its electric potential and electric potential energy remain constant.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a proton moves perpendicular to the electric field lines, it is not moving along the potential gradient (from high to low potential or vice versa). Therefore, both its electric potential and electric potential energy remain constant, as it is not moving closer or farther from the source of the electric field in a way that would change its potential energy.

As a Proton Moves in a Direction Perpendicular to the Electric