Three point charges +q, −2q and +q are placed at points (x = 0, y = a, z = 0), (x = 0, y = 0, z = 0) and (x = a, y = 0, z = 0) respectively. The direction of the electric dipole moment vector of this charge assembly is :−
Physics · Electrostatic
JEE Mains Advanced

Question

Three point charges +q, −2q and +q are placed at points (x = 0, y = a, z = 0), (x = 0, y = 0, z = 0) and (x = a, y = 0, z = 0) respectively. The direction of the electric dipole moment vector of this charge assembly is :−

Physics · Electrostatic

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: Use 𝐩 = Σqᵢ𝐫ᵢ (for net zero charge), V = [1/(4πε₀)](𝐩·𝐞ᵣ/r²) and 𝛕 = 𝐩×𝐄 as needed. Step 2: Resolve 𝐩 into components and use the small-angle approximation τ ≈ −pEθ for oscillations. Step 3: Substitute the given geometry and simplify. Final: C: along the line joining points (x = 0, y = 0, z = 0) and (x = a, y = a, z = 0).