Suppose a region of space has a uniform electric field,directed towards the right,as shown in the figure.Which statement about the electric potential is true?
A) The potential at all three locations (A, B,
C) is the same because the field is uniform.
B) The potential at points A and B are equal, and the potential at point C is higher than the potential at point A.
C) The potential at points A and B are equal, and the potential at point C is lower than the potential at point A.
D) The potential at point A is the highest, the potential at point B is the second highest, and the potential at point C is the lowest.

Question

Suppose a region of space has a uniform electric field,directed towards the right,as shown in the figure.Which statement about the electric potential is true? 
A) The potential at all three locations (A, B,
C) is the same because the field is uniform. 
B) The potential at points A and B are equal, and the potential at point C is higher than the potential at point A. 
C) The potential at points A and B are equal, and the potential at point C is lower than the potential at point A. 
D) The potential at point A is the highest, the potential at point B is the second highest, and the potential at point C is the lowest.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electric potential at a point is related to the work required to move a unit positive charge from infinity to that point against the electric field. In a uniform electric field, the potential difference between any two points is proportional to the distance between them. Therefore, the potential at points A and B, which are equidistant from the source, will be the same. As we move closer to the source, the potential will decrease, so the potential at point C will be lower than the potential at point A. Hence, the correct option is C.

Suppose a Region of Space Has a Uniform Electric Field,directed