Electric PE as a dipole changes its orientation in an electric field

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the change in electric potential energy for an ammonia molecule's dipole moment as it shifts from a parallel to a perpendicular orientation in a uniform electric field. The dipole moment is given as 5.0×10−30 C·m, and the electric field strength is 1.0×10^6 N/C. The potential energy of a dipole is expressed by the formula U = -p · E, where U is zero when the dipole is perpendicular to the field. The user expresses confusion about how to approach the problem and mentions the torque relationship and work done in the context of potential energy. Understanding the relationship between torque and potential energy is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


The ammonia molecule (NH3) has a dipole moment of 5.0×10−30C⋅m. Ammonia molecules in the gas phase are placed in a uniform electric field E⃗ with magnitude 1.0×106N/C.
What is the change in electric potential energy when the dipole moment of a molecule changes its orientation with respect to E⃗ from parallel to perpendicular?


Homework Equations


V = U/q
ΔU = -integral(qE dl)
ΔV = -integral(E dl)
E(r) = -∇V(r)
I have no idea what the upside down delta is...

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't even know where to start. :confused:
 
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Potential energy of a dipole is given by this formula: $$U = -\stackrel{\rightarrow}{p} \cdot \stackrel{\rightarrow}{E}$$Where U is defined to be zero when the dipole is perpendicular to the field. It's derived from the formula for the torque on the dipole: \tau = \stackrel{\rightarrow}{p} \times \stackrel{\rightarrow}{E}, using the relationship U = -W = -\int^{\theta_{f}}_{\theta_{i}}\tau d\theta
 
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