question_answer

An electric dipole is placed at an angle of \[30{}^\circ \]to a non-uniform electric field. The dipole will experience                                  [AIEEE 2006]

A) a translational force only in the direction of the field

B) a translational force only in a direction normal to the direction of the field

C) a torque as well as a translational force

D) a torque only

Correct Answer: C

Solution :

[c]

In a non-uniform electric field, the dipole may experience both non-zero torque as well as translational force.

For example as shown in figure,

\[{{F}_{1}}\ne {{F}_{2}}\] as E is non-uniform. Torque would also be non-zero.