Physics Electrostatics BUMHS 2024
PMDC Verified Question 27 of 131
Q.204 A dielectric for a capacitor can be
I. polar
II. non-polar
A
II
B
both I and II
C
neither I nor II
D
I
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: both I and II
1. Concept:

Dielectric insulators are classified by the natural state of their molecules, but both types successfully polarize and function perfectly inside a capacitor.

2. Formula:

$$ P_{total} = P_{orientation} + P_{electronic} $$

3. Solution:

  • Polar dielectrics (like water) have molecules with permanent dipole moments that physically rotate to align with the external field.


  • Non-polar dielectrics (like air or rubber) have symmetrical molecules, but the external field distorts their electron clouds, inducing temporary dipoles.


  • Both categories successfully generate an opposing internal electric field, fulfilling their role as dielectrics.


4. Why other options are incorrect:

Selecting only I or only II fails to recognize that the fundamental requirement of a dielectric is simply that it is an insulator capable of polarization, regardless of its baseline molecular symmetry.

Quality & Fidelity Assurance: Every question on BeambePrep is rigorously curated against the official PMDC syllabus with zero filler, zero out-of-syllabus content, and zero typos. When an authentic past paper originally contained a historical mistake or ambiguity from the examining board (such as UHS or NUMS), BeambePrep faithfully reflects the original paper while detailing the nuance and scientific consensus in the autopsy above.

Want to solve full-length papers under timed exam conditions?

Practice with zero-scroll lockdown sprints, dynamic latency zone timers, live peer selection telemetry, and the automated Amber mistake recovery loop.