Choose the best definition of a dipole.a)A pair of equal and like char...
Answer: c
Explanation: An electric dipole generally refers to two equal and unlike (opposite signs) charges separated by a small distance. It can be anywhere, not necessarily at origin.
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Choose the best definition of a dipole.a)A pair of equal and like char...
A dipole is a term commonly used in physics to describe a pair of charges with opposite signs that are separated by a small distance. It is a fundamental concept in electromagnetism and plays a crucial role in understanding various electrical phenomena.
A dipole consists of two charges, one positive and one negative, that are located close to each other but not at the same point. The positive charge is usually denoted as "+" and the negative charge as "-". These charges may be identical in magnitude, but they must have opposite signs.
The separation between the charges is typically much smaller compared to the distance from the charges to an observation point. This small separation is what distinguishes a dipole from other charge configurations. The charges can be thought of as forming a line segment, with the positive charge at one end and the negative charge at the other.
The concept of a dipole is essential in understanding the behavior of electric fields, particularly in situations where the distance from the charges is much greater than their separation. When an electric field acts on a dipole, it exerts forces on both charges, causing them to experience a torque. This torque tends to align the dipole with the electric field, resulting in an interesting phenomenon known as dipole orientation.
Dipoles are also important in describing the behavior of electric potential and electric fields in materials. In dielectric materials, such as insulators, the presence of dipoles can significantly affect the behavior of electric fields. The alignment and orientation of dipoles in response to an external electric field contributes to the material's electrical properties, such as its permittivity.
In summary, a dipole is a pair of equal and opposite charges separated by a small distance. It is a fundamental concept in electromagnetism and is crucial for understanding electric fields, dipole orientation, and the behavior of materials in the presence of electric fields.
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