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 E(x) is equal to the negative derivative of the electric potential V(x) with respect to x. From the graph, we can see that the electric potential is increasing from x=-2 to x=0, indicating a negative slope and a positive value of E(x). From x=0 to x=2, the electric potential is decreasing, indicating a positive slope and a negative value of E(x). Therefore, the correct choice is B.

The Graph in the Figure Shows the Variation of the Electric