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Why do we take Θ=90° for calculation of potential energy
Potential energy of a dipole in an external electric field is the energy associated with the arrangement of charges in a dipole in the presence of an external electric field. It represents the work required to assemble the dipole in the given electric field configuration.
The potential energy of a dipole in an external electric field can be calculated using the equation U = -pEcosθ, where U is the potential energy, p is the dipole moment, E is the electric field strength, and θ is the angle between the dipole moment and the electric field.
When the dipole moment and electric field are parallel, the potential energy of the dipole is at its minimum, meaning that the dipole is in a stable equilibrium. This is because the dipole experiences a torque that aligns it with the electric field, resulting in a minimum potential energy.
Yes, the potential energy of a dipole in an external electric field can be negative. This occurs when the dipole moment and electric field are antiparallel, resulting in a maximum potential energy. In this case, the dipole is in an unstable equilibrium and will experience a net torque that tries to align it with the electric field.
The potential energy of a dipole in an external electric field follows an inverse relationship with distance. As the distance between the dipole and the external electric field increases, the potential energy decreases. This is because the electric field strength decreases with distance, resulting in a decrease in the potential energy of the dipole.