The diagram shows the electric field lines in a region of space containing two small charged spheres (Y and Z). Then:
A) Y is negative and Z is positive
B) the magnitude of the electric filed is the same everywhere
C) the electric field is strongest midway between Y and Z
D) Y is positive and Z is negative
E) Y and Z must have the same sign

Question

The diagram shows the electric field lines in a region of space containing two small charged spheres (Y and Z). Then: 
A) Y is negative and Z is positive 
B) the magnitude of the electric filed is the same everywhere 
C) the electric field is strongest midway between Y and Z 
D) Y is positive and Z is negative 
E) Y and Z must have the same sign

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direction of the electric field lines shows that the electric field is pointing from the positive sphere towards the negative sphere. Therefore, Y must be positive and Z must be negative to cause this pattern of electric field lines. Therefore, the correct choice is D.

The Diagram Shows the Electric Field Lines in a Region