📚 Topic Summary
An electric dipole consists of two equal and opposite charges, +q and -q, separated by a distance d. When placed in an external electric field, the dipole experiences a torque that tends to align it with the field. The potential energy of the dipole depends on its orientation relative to the electric field.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for analyzing the behavior of molecules and other systems in electric fields. Let's practice applying these principles!
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match each term with its correct definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Electric Dipole Moment |
A. The energy a dipole has due to its orientation in an electric field. |
| 2. Torque |
B. A measure of the separation and magnitude of the charges in an electric dipole ($p = qd$). |
| 3. Electric Field |
C. A force that causes rotation. |
| 4. Potential Energy |
D. A region of space around an electrically charged object in which a force would be exerted on other electrically charged objects. |
| 5. Dipole Alignment |
E. When the dipole moment is parallel to the electric field. |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph by filling in the missing words:
The torque on an electric dipole in an electric field is given by $\tau = pE \sin(\theta)$, where $p$ is the __________, $E$ is the __________, and $\theta$ is the angle between them. The torque is maximum when $\theta$ is __________ degrees and zero when $\theta$ is __________ degrees. The potential energy is given by $U = -pE \cos(\theta)$, which is minimum when the dipole is __________ with the electric field.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how the concept of electric dipoles is used in everyday applications, such as in microwave ovens or capacitors.