Verified Solution • 2025–26 Session moderate

QPages 139-140: Q2: HC Verma: Concepts of Physics - Volume 2 Gauss's Law Pages 139-140: Q2 Solution: A metallic particle with no net charge is placed near a finite…

⚠️ Common Exam Traps & Conceptual Pitfalls

Students often assume a neutral particle feels no force because its net charge is zero. In fact, the plate induces opposite charges on the near side of the particle, creating an attractive dipole field. Remember that the force depends on the charge distribution, not just the net charge.

A metallic particle with no net charge is placed near a finite metal plate carrying a positive charge. The electric force on the particle will be

Multiple Choice Options

  • A towards the plate
  • B away from the plate
  • C parallel to the plate
  • D zero

Step-by-Step Verified Solution

**Answer:** (a) towards the plate. **Step-by-Step Explanation:** The metallic particle gets polarised and is attracted towards the charged plate (induced charge effect).

All Questions in this Chapter

Related Learning Resources & Exam Preparation