Physics Electrostatics ETEA 2022
PMDC Verified Question 74 of 131
Q.134 Two charges one of which is \( Q_1 = 3\mu\text{C} \) and second one is \( Q_2 = -1\mu\text{C} \) are separated by 100 cm. The electric potential is zero at a point
A
25 cm from \( Q_2 \)
B
75 cm from \( Q_2 \)
C
50 cm from \( Q_1 \)
D
33.3 cm from \( Q_1 \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: 25 cm from \( Q_2 \)
1. Concept:

Electric potential is a scalar quantity. The total potential is zero where the positive potential from \( Q_1 \) exactly cancels the negative potential from \( Q_2 \).

2. Formula:

$$ V_{total} = \frac{k Q_1}{r_1} + \frac{k Q_2}{r_2} = 0 $$

3. Solution:

  • Let the point be at distance \( x \) from \( Q_1 \). The distance from \( Q_2 \) is \( (100 - x) \).


  • Set up the equation: \( \frac{k (3\mu\text{C})}{x} + \frac{k (-1\mu\text{C})}{100 - x} = 0 \).


  • Rearrange: \( \frac{3}{x} = \frac{1}{100 - x} \).


  • Cross-multiply: \( 3(100 - x) = x \implies 300 - 3x = x \implies 4x = 300 \).


  • Solve for \( x \): \( x = 75 \text{ cm} \) from \( Q_1 \).


  • The distance from \( Q_2 \) is \( 100 - 75 = 25 \text{ cm} \).


4. Why other options are incorrect:

Option B is the distance from \( Q_1 \), not \( Q_2 \). Options C and D result from mathematical setup errors or averaging the distances.

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