Show that the force on each plate of a p | Class 12 Physics Chapter Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance, Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance NCERT Solutions

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics - Chapter Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 28: . With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 28:

Show that the force on each plate of a parallel plate capacitor has a magnitude equal to (½) QE, where Q is the charge on the capacitor, and E is the magnitude of electric field between the plates. Explain the origin of the factor ½.

Answer:

Let F be the force applied to separate the plates of a parallel plate capacitor by a distance of Δx.

Hence, work done by the force to do so = FΔx

As a result, the potential energy of the capacitor increases by an amount given as uAΔx.

Where,

u = Energy density

A = Area of each plate

d = Distance between the plates

V = Potential difference across the plates

The work done will be equal to the increase in the potential energy i.e.,

Electric intensity is given by,

However, capacitance,

Charge on the capacitor is given by,

Q = CV

The physical origin of the factor, , in the force formula lies in the fact that just outside the conductor, field is E and inside it is zero. Hence, it is the average value, , of the field that contributes to the force.


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  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance.
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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 28: Show that the force on each plate of a parallel plate capacitor has a magnitude equal to (½) ....