An electric dipole is placed into a uniform electric field directed to the right as shown in the figure.What motion will the dipole have in this electric field?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An electric dipole in a uniform electric field experiences a torque that attempts to align the dipole moment vector with the direction of the electric field. In this case, the dipole moment vector would try to align with the direction of the uniform field, leading to a rotation in a counter-clockwise direction. There would be no net translational motion of the dipole. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

An Electric Dipole Is Placed into a Uniform Electric Field