The electric field at the surface of a conductor is
A) parallel to the surface.
B) never zero.
C) perpendicular to the surface.
D) always zero.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electric field at the surface of a conductor is perpendicular to the surface. This is because the charges on the surface of a conductor rearrange themselves in such a way that the electric field inside the conductor is zero, leading to the field lines being perpendicular at the surface to ensure no component of the field exists parallel to the surface, which would otherwise cause further movement of charges.

The Electric Field at the Surface of a Conductor Is