Figure 1.5 shows electric field lines where an electric dipole p is placed. Do you know which of the following statements is correct?
A. The dipole will not experience any force.
B. The dipole will experience a force towards the right.
C. The dipole will experience a force towards the left.
D. The dipole will experience a force upwards.
The spacing between electric lines of force increases from left to right. It means that the electric field intensity E on the left is greater than the electric field intensity E on the right.
So, the force on the +q charge of the dipole is smaller and to the right. Force on −q charge of the dipole is bigger and to the left due to variable electric field. Hence the dipole will experience force towards the left.
The correct option is C The dipole will experience a force towards the left.