Understanding Dipole Moment: The Measure of Electric Strength Explained"

AI Thread Summary
Dipole moment measures the strength of an electric dipole, defined as the product of charge and the distance between two charges (P=ql). While the force between charges diminishes with distance, the dipole moment itself increases with distance, leading to confusion about the term "strength." The discussion clarifies that the dipole moment is distinct from the force acting between charges, similar to how gravitational attraction between masses weakens with distance while their angular momentum increases. The concept of "strength" in relation to dipoles is debated, emphasizing that a dipole has a moment, field, and potential rather than a singular strength. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately discussing dipole moments.
Abdul Majid
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Dipole moment is the measure of strength of electric dipole and is equal to product of either charge and distance between two charges.
P=ql
but as we know when charges are close the force b/w them is strong n when they are far away force decrease.
But in above equation strength increases with increase in distance as p is directly proportional to l.
Where have i got it wrong?
 
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Abdul Majid said:
Dipole moment is the measure of strength of electric dipole and is equal to product of either charge and distance between two charges.
P=ql
but as we know when charges are close the force b/w them is strong n when they are far away force decrease.
But in above equation strength increases with increase in distance as p is directly proportional to l.
Where have i got it wrong?
Those are two different things. The attraction between them diminishes if they are far apart, but that is not the dipole moment.
There is an analogous situation with masses and gravity. If two masses orbit each other, the attraction between them is weaker when they are far apart, but their angular momentum increases.
 
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What do we mean by strength of dipole?
 
Abdul Majid said:
What do we mean by strength of dipole?
I'm not sure it is right to speak of the dipole having a strength. A dipole has a moment, and the moment has a strength. But the dipole also has a field and a potential.
 
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