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NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Electric Charges and Fields

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NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Electric Charges and Fields - FREE PDF Download

NCERT Electric Charges And Fields Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Solutions by Vedantu, helps to understanding the principles of electrostatics. Electrostatics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of forces, fields, and potentials arising from static electric charges. Understanding these concepts is essential for more advanced topics in electromagnetism. In simple terms, this chapter gives you the foundational knowledge of electric charges. Through these solutions, students can learn the behaviour of electric charges, the laws governing their interactions, and the resultant electric fields. By practising with these Class 12 Physics NCERT Solutions, students can build confidence in their understanding and excel in their studies.

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Table of Content
1. NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Electric Charges and Fields - FREE PDF Download
2. Glance on Physics Chapter 1 Class 12 - Electric Charges and Fields
3. Access NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 – Electric Charges and Fields
4. List of Important Formulas in Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Electric Charges And Fields
    4.1Coulomb’s Law
5. Chapter Summary of Electric Charges & Fields NCERT Solutions
6. Overview of Deleted Syllabus for CBSE Class 12 Physics Electric Charges and Fields
7. Conclusion
8. Other Study Material for CBSE Class 12 Physics Chapter 1
9. Chapter-Specific NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics
10. Related Links for NCERT Class 12 Physics in Hindi
11. Chapter-Specific NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics
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Glance on Physics Chapter 1 Class 12 - Electric Charges and Fields

  • Chapter 1 of Class 12 Physics equips you with the foundational knowledge of electric charges and the invisible forces they exert through electric fields. 

  • Electric charge is a fundamental property of matter that causes it to experience a force when placed in an electromagnetic field.

  • The electrostatic force between two point charges is directly proportional to the product of the magnitudes of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

F = K$\frac{q_{1}q_{2}}{r2}$

  • Gauss’s law: The flux of the electric field through any closed surface S is $1/\varepsilon _0$ times the total charge enclosed by S. The law is especially useful in determining electric field E when the source distribution has simple symmetry.

  • Electric flux is the measure of the field lines crossing a surface. It is a scalar quantity. “The number of field lines passing through the perpendicular unit area will be proportional to the magnitude of Electric Field there” 

  • An electric dipole is a pair of equal and opposite charges q and –q separated by some distance 2a. Its dipole moment vector p has magnitude 2qa and is in the direction of the dipole axis from –q to q.

  • This article contains chapter notes, important questions, exemplar solutions, exercises, and video links for Chapter 12 - Electric Charges and Fields, which you can download as PDFs.

  • There are 23 fully solved questions in physics class 12 chapter 1 Electric Charges and Fields.

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Access NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 – Electric Charges and Fields

1. What is the force between two small charged spheres of charges 

$2\times {{10}^{-7}}C$ and $3\times {{10}^{-7}}C$ placed $30cm$ apart in air?

Ans: We are given the following information:

Repulsive force of magnitude,$F=6\times {{10}^{-3}}N$

Charge on the first sphere, ${{q}_{1}}=2\times {{10}^{-7}}C$

Charge on the second sphere, ${{q}_{2}}=3\times {{10}^{-7}}C$

Distance between the two spheres, $r=30cm=0.3m$

Electrostatic force between the two spheres is given by Coulomb’s law as,

$F=\frac{1}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}}\frac{{{q}_{1}}{{q}_{2}}}{{{r}^{2}}}$

Where, ${{\varepsilon }_{0}}$is the permittivity of free space and, 

$\frac{1}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}}=9\times {{10}^{9}}N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-2}}$

Now on substituting the given values, Coulomb’s law becomes, 

\[F = \frac{9\times 10^{9}\times 2\times 10^{-7}\times 3\times 10^{-7}}{(0.3)^{2}}\]

Therefore, we found the electrostatic force between the given charged spheres to be $F=6\times {{10}^{-3}}N$. Since the charges are of the same nature, we could say that the force is repulsive.

 

2. The electrostatic force on a small sphere of charge $0.4\mu C$ due to another small sphere of charge $-0.8\mu C$ in air is 0.2N.

a) What is the distance between the two spheres?

Ans: Electrostatic force on the first sphere is given to be, $F=0.2N$

Charge of the first sphere is, ${{q}_{1}}=0.4\mu C=0.4\times {{10}^{-6}}C$

Charge of the second sphere is, ${{q}_{2}}=-0.8\mu C=-0.8\times {{10}^{-6}}C$

We have the electrostatic force given by Coulomb’s law as,

$F=\frac{1}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}}\frac{{{q}_{1}}{{q}_{2}}}{{{r}^{2}}}$

$\Rightarrow r=\sqrt{\frac{{{q}_{1}}{{q}_{2}}}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}F}}$

Substituting the given values in the above equation, we get, 

$\Rightarrow r=\sqrt{\frac{0.4\times {{10}^{-6}}\times 8\times {{10}^{-6}}\times 9\times {{10}^{9}}}{0.2}}$

$\Rightarrow r=\sqrt{144\times {{10}^{-4}}}$

$\therefore r=0.12m$

Therefore, we found the distance between charged spheres to be $r=0.12m$.

 

b) What is the force on the second sphere due to the first?

Ans: From Newton’s third law of motion, we know that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. 

Thus, we could say that the given two spheres would attract each other with the same force. 

So, the force on the second sphere due to the first sphere will be $0.2N$. 

 

3. Check whether the ratio $\frac{k{{e}^{2}}}{G{{m}_{e}}{{m}_{p}}}$is dimensionless. Look up a table of physical constants and hence determine the value of the given ratio. What does the ratio signify?

Ans: We are given the ratio, $\frac{k{{e}^{2}}}{G{{m}_{e}}{{m}_{p}}}$.

Here, G is the gravitational constant which has its unit $N{{m}^{2}}k{{g}^{-2}}$;

${{m}_{e}}$and ${{m}_{p}}$ are the masses of electron and proton in $kg$ respectively;

$e$ is the electric charge in $C$; 

$k$ is a constant given by $k=\frac{1}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$

In the expression for k, ${{\varepsilon }_{0}}$ is the permittivity of free space which has its unit $N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-2}}$. 

Now, we could find the dimension of the given ratio by considering their units as follows: 

$\frac{k{{e}^{2}}}{G{{m}_{e}}{{m}_{p}}}=\frac{\left[ N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-2}} \right]{{\left[ C \right]}^{2}}}{\left[ N{{m}^{2}}k{{g}^{-2}} \right]\left[ kg \right]\left[ kg \right]}={{M}^{0}}{{L}^{0}}{{T}^{0}}$

Clearly, it is understood that the given ratio is dimensionless. 

Now, we know the values for the given physical quantities as, 

$e=1.6\times {{10}^{-19}}C$

$G=6.67\times {{10}^{-11}}N{{m}^{2}}k{{g}^{-2}}$

${{m}_{e}}=9.1\times {{10}^{-31}}kg$

${{m}_{p}}=1.66\times {{10}^{-27}}kg$

Substituting these values into the required ratio, we get, 

$\frac{k{{e}^{2}}}{G{{m}_{e}}{{m}_{p}}}=\frac{9\times {{10}^{9}}\times {{\left( 1.6\times {{10}^{-19}} \right)}^{2}}}{6.67\times {{10}^{-11}}\times 9.1\times {{10}^{-3}}\times 1.67\times {{10}^{-22}}}$

$\Rightarrow \frac{k{{e}^{2}}}{G{{m}_{e}}{{m}_{p}}}\approx 2.3\times {{10}^{39}}$

We could infer that the given ratio is the ratio of electrical force to the gravitational force between a proton and an electron when the distance between them is kept constant. 

 

4.

a) Explain the meaning of the statements ‘electric charge of a body is quantized’. 

Ans: The given statement ‘Electric charge of a body is quantized’ means that only the integral number $(1,2,3,...,n)$ of electrons can be transferred from one body to another. 

That is, charges cannot be transferred from one body to another in fraction.

 

b) Why can one ignore quantization of electric charge when dealing with macroscopic i.e., large scale charges?

Ans: On a macroscopic scale or large-scale, the number of charges is as large as the magnitude of an electric charge. 

So, quantization is considered insignificant at a macroscopic scale for an electric charge and electric charges are considered continuous.

 

5. When a glass rod is rubbed with a silk cloth, charges appear on both. A similar phenomenon is observed with many other pairs of bodies. Explain how this observation is consistent with the law of conservation of charge. 

Ans: Rubbing two objects would produce charges that are equal in magnitude and opposite in nature on the two bodies. 

This happens due to the reason that charges are created in pairs. This phenomenon is called charging by friction. 

The net charge of the system however remains zero as the opposite charges equal in magnitude annihilate each other. 

So, rubbing a glass rod with a silk cloth creates opposite charges of equal magnitude on both of them and this observation is found to be consistent with the law of conservation of charge. 

 

6. Four point charges ${{q}_{A}}=2\mu C$, ${{q}_{B}}=-5\mu C$, ${{q}_{C}}=2\mu C$and ${{q}_{D}}=-5\mu C$ are located at the corners of a square ABCD with side 10cm. What is the force on the $1\mu C$ charge placed at the centre of this square?

Ans: Consider the square of side length $10cm$ given below with four charges at its corners and let O be its centre.


Diagram showing the charges placed at the corners of the square.


From the figure we find the diagonals to be, 

$AC=BD=10\sqrt{2}cm$

$\Rightarrow AO=OC=DO=OB=5\sqrt{2}cm$

Now the repulsive force at O due to charge at A, 

${{F}_{AO}}=k\frac{{{q}_{A}}{{q}_{O}}}{O{{A}^{2}}}=k\frac{\left( +2\mu C \right)\left( 1\mu C \right)}{{{\left( 5\sqrt{2} \right)}^{2}}}$…………………………………………… (1)

And the repulsive force at O due to charge at D, 

${{F}_{DO}}=k\frac{{{q}_{D}}{{q}_{O}}}{O{{D}^{2}}}=k\frac{\left( +2\mu C \right)\left( 1\mu C \right)}{{{\left( 5\sqrt{2} \right)}^{2}}}$………………………………………….. (2) 

And the attractive force at O due to charge at B, 

${{F}_{BO}}=k\frac{{{q}_{B}}{{q}_{O}}}{O{{B}^{2}}}=k\frac{\left( -5\mu C \right)\left( 1\mu C \right)}{{{\left( 5\sqrt{2} \right)}^{2}}}$……………………………………………. (3)

And the attractive force at O due to charge at C, 

${{F}_{CO}}=k\frac{{{q}_{C}}{{q}_{O}}}{O{{C}^{2}}}=k\frac{\left( -5\mu C \right)\left( 1\mu C \right)}{{{\left( 5\sqrt{2} \right)}^{2}}}$……………………………………………… (4)

We find that (1) and (2) are of same magnitude but they act in the opposite direction and hence they cancel out each other. 

Similarly, (3) and (4) are of the same magnitude but in the opposite direction and hence they cancel out each other too. 

Hence, the net force on charge at centre O is found to be zero. 

 

7. 

a) An electrostatic field line is a continuous curve. That is, a field line cannot have sudden breaks. Why not? 

Ans: An electrostatic field line is a continuous curve as the charge experiences a continuous force on being placed in an electric field. 

As the charge doesn’t jump from one point to the other, field lines will not have sudden breaks. 

 

b) Explain why two field lines never cross each other at any point?

Ans: If two field lines are seen to cross each other at a point, it would imply that the electric field intensity has two different directions at that point, as two different tangents (representing the direction of electric field intensity at that point) can be drawn at the point of intersection. 

This is however impossible and thus, two field lines never cross each other.

 

8. Two point charges ${{q}_{A}}=3\mu C$and ${{q}_{B}}=-3\mu C$are located 20cm apart in vacuum. 

a) What is the electric field at the midpoint O of the line AB joining the two charges?

Ans: The situation could be represented in the following figure. Let O be the midpoint of line AB.


Diagram showing the equal and opposite  charges separated by some distance.


We are given:

\[AB=20cm\]

\[AO=OB=10cm\]

Take E to be the electric field at point O, then, 

The electric field at point O due to charge $+3\mu C$would be, 

${{E}_{1}}=\frac{3\times {{10}^{-6}}}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}{{\left( AO \right)}^{2}}}=\frac{3\times {{10}^{-6}}}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}{{\left( 10\times {{10}^{-2}} \right)}^{2}}}N{{C}^{-1}}$along OB

The electric field at point O due to charge $-3\mu C$would be, 

${{E}_{2}}=\left| \frac{3\times {{10}^{-6}}}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}{{\left( OB \right)}^{2}}} \right|=\frac{3\times {{10}^{-6}}}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}{{\left( 10\times {{10}^{-2}} \right)}^{2}}}N{{C}^{-1}}$along OB 

The net electric field,

$\Rightarrow E={{E}_{1}}+{{E}_{2}}$

$\Rightarrow E=2\times \frac{9\times {{10}^{9}}\times 3\times {{10}^{-6}}}{{{\left( 10\times {{10}^{-2}} \right)}^{2}}}$

$\Rightarrow E=5.4\times {{10}^{6}}N{{C}^{-1}}$

Therefore, the electric field at mid-point O is $E=5.4\times {{10}^{6}}N{{C}^{-1}}$ along OB. 

 

b) If a negative test charge of magnitude $1.5\times {{10}^{-19}}C$ is placed at this point, what is the force experienced by the test charge?

Ans: We have a test charge of magnitude $1.5\times {{10}^{-9}}C$ placed at mid-point O and we found the electric field at this point to be $E=5.4\times {{10}^{6}}N{{C}^{-1}}$.

So, the force experienced by the test charge would be F, 

$\Rightarrow F=qE$

$\Rightarrow F=1.5\times {{10}^{-9}}\times 5.4\times {{10}^{6}}$

$\Rightarrow F=8.1\times {{10}^{-3}}N$

This force will be directed along OA since like charges repel and unlike charges attract.

 

9. A system has two charges ${{q}_{A}}=2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C$and ${{q}_{B}}=-2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C$located at points $A:\left( 0,0,-15cm \right)$ and $B:\left( 0,0,+15cm \right)$ respectively. What are the total charge and electric dipole moment of the system?

Ans: The figure given below represents the system mentioned in the question:


Diagram showing the charges placed at the coordinate system.


The charge at point A, ${{q}_{A}}=2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C$

The charge at point B, ${{q}_{B}}=-2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C$

Then, the net charge would be, $q={{q}_{A}}+{{q}_{B}}=2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C-2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C=0$

The distance between two charges at A and B would be,

\[d=15+15=30cm\]

$d=0.3m$

The electric dipole moment of the system could be given by,

$P=\mathop{q}_{A}\times d=\mathop{q}_{B}\times d$

$\Rightarrow P=2.5\times {{10}^{-7}}\times 0.3$

$\therefore P=7.5\times {{10}^{-8}}Cm$ along the \[+z\]axis.

Therefore, the electric dipole moment of the system is found to be $7.5\times {{10}^{-8}}Cm$ and it is directed along the positive \[z\]-axis.

 

10. An electric dipole with dipole moment $4\times {{10}^{-9}}Cm$ is aligned at $30{}^\circ $ with direction of a uniform electric field of magnitude $5\times {{10}^{4}}N{{C}^{-1}}$. Calculate the magnitude of the torque acting on the dipole.

Ans: We are given the following:

Electric dipole moment, $\overrightarrow{p}=4\times {{10}^{-9}}Cm$ 

Angle made by $\overrightarrow{p}$ with uniform electric field, $\theta =30{}^\circ $ 

Electric field, $\overrightarrow{E}=5\times {{10}^{4}}N{{C}^{-1}}$ 

Torque acting on the dipole is given by

$\tau =pE\sin \theta $ 

Substituting the given values we get, 

$\Rightarrow \tau =4\times {{10}^{-9}}\times 5\times {{10}^{4}}\times \sin 30{}^\circ $

$\Rightarrow \tau =20\times {{10}^{-5}}\times \frac{1}{2}$

$\therefore \tau ={{10}^{-4}}Nm$

Thus, the magnitude of the torque acting on the dipole is found to be ${{10}^{-4}}Nm$.

 

11. A polythene piece rubbed with wool is found to have a negative charge of $3\times {{10}^{-7}}C$ 

a) Estimate the number of electrons transferred (from which to which?)

Ans: When polythene is rubbed against wool, a certain number of electrons get transferred from wool to polythene. 

As a result of which wool becomes positively charged on losing electrons and polythene becomes negatively charged on gaining them.

We are given:

Charge on the polythene piece, $q=-3\times {{10}^{-7}}C$ 

Charge of an electron, $e=-1.6\times {{10}^{-19}}C$ 

Let n be the number of electrons transferred from wool to polythene, then, from the property of quantization we have, 

$q=ne$ 

$\Rightarrow n=\frac{q}{e}$

Now, on substituting the given values, we get, 

$\Rightarrow n=\frac{-3\times {{10}^{-7}}}{-1.6\times {{10}^{-19}}}$

$\therefore n=1.87\times {{10}^{12}}$

Therefore, the number of electrons transferred from wool to polythene would be$1.87\times {{10}^{12}}$.

 

b) Is there a transfer of mass from wool to polythene?

Ans: Yes, during the transfer of electrons from wool to polythene, along with charge, mass is transferred too. 

Let $m$ be the mass being transferred in the given case and ${{m}_{e}}$ be the mass of the electron, then,

$m={{m}_{e}}\times n$ 

$\Rightarrow m=9.1\times {{10}^{-31}}\times 1.85\times {{10}^{12}}$

$\therefore m=1.706\times {{10}^{-18}}kg$

Thus, we found that a negligible amount of mass does get transferred from wool to polythene.

 

12.

a) Two insulated charged copper spheres $A$ and $B$ have their centres separated by a distance of $50cm$. What is the mutual force of electrostatic repulsion if the charge on each is $6.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C$? The radii of A and B are negligible compared to the distance of separation. 

Ans: We are given:

Charges on spheres $A$ and $B$ are equal,

${{q}_{A}}={{q}_{B}}=6.5\times {{10}^{-7}}C$

Distance between the centres of the spheres is given as,

$r=50cm=0.5m$

It is known that the force of repulsion between the two spheres would be given by Coulomb’s law as,

$F=\frac{{{q}_{A}}{{q}_{B}}}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}{{r}^{2}}}$

Where, ${{\varepsilon }_{o}}$ is the permittivity of the free space

Substituting the known values into the above expression, we get,

$F=\frac{9\times {{10}^{9}}\times {{(6.5\times {{10}^{-7}})}^{2}}}{{{(0.5)}^{2}}}=1.52\times {{10}^{-2}}N$

Thus, the mutual force of electrostatic repulsion between the two spheres is found to be$F=1.52\times {{10}^{-2}}N$.

 

b) What is the force of repulsion if each sphere is charged double the above amount, and the distance between them is halved?

Ans: It is told that the charges on both the spheres are doubled and the distance between the centres of the spheres is halved. That is,

${{q}_{A}}'={{q}_{B}}'=2\times 6.5\times {{10}^{-7}}=13\times {{10}^{-7}}C$

$r'=\frac{1}{2}(0.5)=0.25m$

Now, we could substitute these values in Coulomb’s law to get,

$F'=\frac{{{q}_{A}}'{{q}_{B}}'}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}r{{'}^{2}}}$

$\Rightarrow F=\frac{9\times {{10}^{9}}\times {{(13\times {{10}^{-7}})}^{2}}}{{{(0.25)}^{2}}}$

$\Rightarrow F=0.243N$

The new mutual force of electrostatic repulsion between the two spheres is found to be $0.243N$.


13. Figure below shows tracks taken by three charged particles in a uniform electrostatic field. Give the signs of the three charges and also mention which particle has the highest charge to mass ratio?

Diagram showing the  tracks taken by three charged particles in a uniform electrostatic field.

Ans: From the known properties of charges, we know that the unlike charges attract and like charges repel each other. 

So, the particles 1 and 2 that move towards the positively charged plate while repelling away from the negatively charged plate would be negatively charged and the particle 3 that moves towards the negatively charged plate while repelling away from the positively charged plate would be positively charged.

Now, we know that the charge to mass ratio (which is generally known as emf) is directly proportional to the displacement or the amount of deflection for a given velocity. 

Since the deflection of particle 3 is found to be maximum among the three, it would have the highest charge to mass ratio.

 

14. Consider a uniform electric field $E=3\times {{10}^{3}}\hat{i}N/C$. 

a) Find the flux of this field through a square of side $10cm$whose plane is parallel to the y-z plane. 

Ans: We are given:

Electric field intensity, $\overrightarrow{E}=3\times {{10}^{3}}\hat{i}N/C$

Magnitude of electric field intensity, $\left| \overrightarrow{E} \right|=3\times {{10}^{3}}N/C$

Side of the square, $a=10cm=0.1m$ 

Area of the square, $A={{a}^{2}}=0.01{{m}^{2}}$ 

Since the plane of the square is parallel to the y-z plane, the normal to its plane would be directed in the x direction. So, angle between normal to the plane and the electric field would be, $\theta =0{}^\circ $ 

We know that the flux through a surface is given by the relation, 

$\phi =\left| E \right|\left| A \right|\cos \theta $

Substituting the given values, we get, 

$\Rightarrow \phi =3\times {{10}^{3}}\times 0.01\times \cos 0{}^\circ $

$\therefore \phi =30N{{m}^{2}}/C$

Thus, we found the net flux through the given surface to be $\phi =30N{{m}^{2}}/C$.

 

b) What would be the flux through the same square if the normal to its plane makes $60{}^\circ $ angle with the x-axis? 

Ans: When the plane makes an angle of $60{}^\circ $ with the x-axis, the flux through the given surface would be,

$\phi =\left| E \right|\left| A \right|\cos \theta $

$\Rightarrow \phi =3\times {{10}^{3}}\times 0.01\times \cos 60{}^\circ $

$\Rightarrow \phi =30\times \frac{1}{2}$

$\Rightarrow \phi =15N{{m}^{2}}/C$

So, we found the flux in this case to be, $\phi =15N{{m}^{2}}/C$.

 

15. What is the net flux of the uniform electric field of exercise $1.15$ through a cube of side $20cm$ oriented so that its faces are parallel to the coordinate planes?

Ans: We are given that all the faces of the cube are parallel to the coordinate planes. 

Clearly, the number of field lines entering the cube is equal to the number of field lines entering out of the cube. As a result, the net flux through the cube would be zero.

 

16. Careful measurement of the electric field at the surface of a black box indicates that the net outward flux through the surface of the box is $8.0\times {{10}^{3}}N{{m}^{2}}/C$

a) What is the net charge inside the box? 

Ans: We are given that:

Net outward flux through surface of the box,

$\phi =8.0\times {{10}^{3}}N{{m}^{2}}/C$ 

For a body containing of net charge $q$, flux could be given by,

$\phi =\frac{q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$ 

Where, ${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}=$ Permittivity of free space 

Therefore, the charge $q$ is given by

$q=\phi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}$

$\Rightarrow q=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}\times 8.0\times {{10}^{3}}$

$\Rightarrow q=7.08\times {{10}^{-8}}$

$\Rightarrow q=0.07\mu C$

Therefore, the net charge inside the box is found to be $0.07\mu C$.

 

b) If the net outward flux through the surface of the box were zero, could you conclude that there were no charges inside the box? Why or why not?

Ans: No, the net flux entering out through a body depends on the net charge contained within the body according to Gauss’s law. 

So, if the net flux is given to be zero, then it can be inferred that the net charge inside the body is zero. 

However, the net charge of the body being zero only implies that the body has equal amount of positive and negative charges and thus, we cannot conclude that there were no charges inside the box.

 

17. A point charge $+10\mu C$ is a distance $5cm$ directly above the centre of a square of side $10cm$, as shown in Figure below. What is the magnitude of the electric flux through the square? (Hint: Think of the square as one face of a cube with edge $10cm$) 

Ans: Consider the square as one face of a cube of edge length $10cm$ with a charge $q$ at its centre, according to Gauss's theorem for a cube, total electric flux is through all its six faces.


A cube with different sides to measure electric flux.


${{\phi }_{total}}=\frac{q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$

The electric flux through one face of the cube could be now given by,  \[\phi =\frac{{{\phi }_{total}}}{6}\].

$\phi =\frac{1}{6}\frac{q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$

${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}=$ Permittivity of free space

The net charge enclosed would be, $q=10\mu C=10\times {{10}^{-6}}C$

Substituting the values given in the question, we get, 

$\phi =\frac{1}{6}\times \frac{10\times {{10}^{-6}}}{8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}}$

$\therefore \phi =1.88\times {{10}^{5}}N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-1}}$

Therefore, electric flux through the square is found to be $1.88\times {{10}^{5}}N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-1}}$.

 

18. A point charge of $2.0\mu C$ is kept at the centre of a cubic Gaussian surface of edge length $9cm$. What is the net electric flux through this surface? 

Ans: Let us consider one of the faces of the cubical Gaussian surface considered (square).

Since a cube has six such square faces in total, we could say that the flux through one surface would be one-sixth the total flux through the gaussian surface considered. 


A cube with different sides to measure electric flux.


The net flux through the cubical Gaussian surface by Gauss’s law could be given by, 

${{\phi }_{total}}=\frac{q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$

So, the electric flux through one face of the cube would be, \[\phi =\frac{{{\phi }_{total}}}{6}\]

$\Rightarrow \phi =\frac{1}{6}\frac{q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$……………………………….. (1)

But we have, 

${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}=$ Permittivity of free space

Charge enclosed, $q=10\mu C=10\times {{10}^{-6}}C$

Substituting the given values in (1) we get, 

$\phi =\frac{1}{6}\times \frac{10\times {{10}^{-6}}}{8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}}$

$\Rightarrow \phi =1.88\times {{10}^{5}}N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-1}}$

Therefore, electric flux through the square surface is $1.88\times {{10}^{5}}N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-1}}$.

 

19. A point charge causes an electric flux of $-1.0\times {{10}^{3}}N{{m}^{2}}/C$ to pass through a spherical Gaussian surface of $10cm$ radius centred on the charge. 

a) If the radius of the Gaussian surface were doubled, how much flux could pass through the surface? 

Ans: We are given:

Electric flux due to the given point charge, $\phi =-1.0\times {{10}^{3}}N{{m}^{2}}/C$ 

Radius of the Gaussian surface enclosing the point charge,$r=10.0cm$ 

Electric flux piercing out through a surface depends on the net charge enclosed by the surface according to Gauss’s law and is independent of the dimensions of the arbitrary surface assumed to enclose this charge. 

Hence, if the radius of the Gaussian surface is doubled, then the flux passing through the surface remains the same i.e., $-{{10}^{3}}N{{m}^{2}}/C$.

 

b) What is the magnitude of the point charge?

Ans: Electric flux could be given by the relation,

${{\phi }_{total}}=\frac{q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$

Where,$q=$ net charge enclosed by the spherical surface

${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}=$ Permittivity of free space

$\Rightarrow q=\phi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}$

Substituting the given values,

$\Rightarrow q=-1.0\times {{10}^{3}}\times 8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}=-8.854\times {{10}^{-9}}C$

$\Rightarrow q=-8.854nC$

Thus, the value of the point charge is found to be $-8.854nC$.

 

20. A conducting sphere of radius $10cm$ has an unknown charge. If the electric field at a point $20cm$ from the centre of the sphere of magnitude $1.5\times {{10}^{3}}N/C$ is directed radially inward, what is the net charge on the sphere?

Ans: We have the relation for electric field intensity $E$ at a distance \[\left( d \right)\] from the centre of a sphere containing net charge $q$ is given by,

$E=\frac{q}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}{{d}^{2}}}$ ……………………………………………… (1)

Where, 

Net charge, $q=1.5\times {{10}^{3}}N/C$

Distance from the centre, $d=20cm=0.2m$ 

${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}=$ Permittivity of free space

$\frac{1}{4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}}=9\times {{10}^{9}}N{{m}^{2}}{{C}^{-2}}$

From (1), the unknown charge would be, 

$q=E\left( 4\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}} \right){{d}^{2}}$

Substituting the given values we get, 

$\Rightarrow q=\frac{1.5\times {{10}^{3}}\times {{\left( 0.2 \right)}^{2}}}{9\times {{10}^{9}}}=6.67\times {{10}^{-9}}C$

$\Rightarrow q=6.67nC$

Therefore, the net charge on the sphere is found to be$6.67nC$.

 

21. A uniformly charged conducting sphere of $2.4m$ diameter has a surface charge density of $80.0\mu C/{{m}^{2}}$.

A uniformly charged conducting sphere with surface charge density.

a) Find the charge on the sphere. 

Ans: Given that,

Diameter of the sphere, $d=2.4m$. 

Radius of the sphere, $r=1.2m$. 

Surface charge density, 

\[\sigma =80.0\mu C/{{m}^{2}}=80\times {{10}^{-6}}C/{{m}^{2}}\] 

Total charge on the surface of the sphere,

$Q=\text{Charge density }\times \text{ Surface area}$ 

$\Rightarrow \text{Q}=\sigma \times \text{4}\pi {{\text{r}}^{2}}=80\times {{10}^{-6}}\times 4\times 3.14\times {{\left( 1.2 \right)}^{2}}$

$\Rightarrow Q=1.447\times {{10}^{-3}}C$

Therefore, the charge on the sphere is found to be $1.447\times {{10}^{-3}}C$.

 

b) What is the total electric flux leaving the surface of the sphere?

Ans: Total electric flux $\left( {{\phi }_{total}} \right)$ leaving out the surface containing net charge $Q$ is given by Gauss’s law as, 

${{\phi }_{total}}=\frac{Q}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$…………………………………………………. (1)

Where, permittivity of free space,

${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}$

We found the charge on the sphere to be, 

$Q=1.447\times {{10}^{-3}}C$

Substituting these in (1), we get, 

${{\phi }_{total}}=\frac{1.447\times {{10}^{-3}}}{8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}}$

$\Rightarrow {{\phi }_{total}}=1.63\times {{10}^{-8}}N{{C}^{-1}}{{m}^{2}}$

Therefore, the total electric flux leaving the surface of the sphere is found to be $1.63\times {{10}^{-8}}N{{C}^{-1}}{{m}^{2}}$.

 

22. An infinite line charge produces a field of magnitude $9\times {{10}^{4}}N/C$ at a distance of $2cm$. Calculate the linear charge density.

Ans: Electric field produced by the given infinite line charge at a distance $d$having linear charge density$\lambda $ could be given by the relation,

$E=\frac{\lambda }{2\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}d}$ 

$\Rightarrow \lambda =2\pi {{\varepsilon }_{0}}Ed$…………………………………….. (1)

We are given:

$d=2cm=0.02m$  

$E=9\times {{10}^{4}}N/C$ 

Permittivity of free space,

${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}$ 

Substituting these values in (1) we get, 

$\Rightarrow \lambda =2\pi \left( 8.854\times {{10}^{-12}} \right)\left( 9\times {{10}^{4}} \right)\left( 0.02 \right)$

$\Rightarrow \lambda =10\times {{10}^{-8}}C/m$

Therefore, we found the linear charge density to be $10\times {{10}^{-8}}C/m$.

 

23. Two large, thin metal plates are parallel and close to each other. On their inner faces, the plates have surface charge densities of opposite signs and of magnitude $17.0\times {{10}^{-22}}C{{m}^{-2}}$. What is $E$ in the outer region of the first plate? What is $E$ in the outer region of the second plate? What is E between the plates?

Ans: The given nature of metal plates is represented in the figure below: 


Two parallel plates placed parallel and close to each other with opposite surface charge densities.


Here, A and B are two parallel plates kept close to each other. The outer region of plate A is denoted as $I$, outer region of plate B is denoted as $III$, and the region between the plates, A and B, is denoted as $II$.

It is given that:

Charge density of plate A, $\sigma =17.0\times {{10}^{-22}}C/{{m}^{2}}$

Charge density of plate B, $\sigma =-17.0\times {{10}^{-22}}C/{{m}^{2}}$

In the regions $I$and$III$, electric field E is zero. This is because the charge is not enclosed within the respective plates.

Now, the electric field $E$ in the region $II$ is given by

$E=\frac{|\sigma |}{{{\varepsilon }_{0}}}$ 

Where, 

Permittivity of free space ${{\varepsilon }_{0}}=8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}{{N}^{-1}}{{C}^{2}}{{m}^{-2}}$ 

Clearly,

$E=\frac{17.0\times {{10}^{-22}}}{8.854\times {{10}^{-12}}}$

$\Rightarrow E=1.92\times {{10}^{-10}}N/C$

Thus, the electric field between the plates is $1.92\times {{10}^{-10}}N/C$.


List of Important Formulas in Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Electric Charges And Fields

While preparing a chapter, it is important for students to memorize the formula of a particular topic. This will help them to boost their score. Some important formulas are listed below.


  • Coulomb’s Law

The electric force between the two-point charges are directly proportional to the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

F = K$\frac{q_{1}q_{2}}{r2}$

Here,

  • F represents the electric force.

  • K represents Coulomb’s constant.

  • $q_{1}q_{2}$ represents the two charges.

$\lambda$ represents the distance between two charges.  

  • Electric field intensity 

  • Electric field intensity is the vector quantity.             

  • E $\frac{F}{q_{1}}$

Here, 

  • F is the force experienced by the test charge.

  • $q_1$ is the test charge.

  • Electric Flux 

dФ = E.da

dФ = E.da cos𝛉 

Ф = ഽ E.da


Chapter Summary of Electric Charges & Fields NCERT Solutions

  • From simple experiments on frictional electricity, one can infer that there are two types of charges in nature; and that like charges repel and unlike charges attract. By convention, the charge on a glass rod rubbed with silk is positive; that on a plastic rod rubbed with fur is then negative.

  • Charge is not only a scalar (or invariant) under rotation; it is also invariant for frames of reference in relative motion. This is not always true for every scalar. For Example-, kinetic energy is a scalar under rotation, but is not invariant for frames of reference in relative motion.

  • Conductors allow movement of electric charge through them, insulators do not. In metals, the mobile charges are electrons; in electrolytes both positive and negative ions are mobile.

  • Coulomb’s Law: The mutual electrostatic force between two point charges q1 and q2 is proportional to the product q1q2 and inversely proportional to the square of the distance r21 separating them. 

$F_{21}=\text{force}\;q_{2} \;\text{du to}\;q_{1}\;=\frac{k(q_{1}q_{2})}{r^2_{21}}\;r_{21}$

Where $r_{21}$ is a unit vector in the direction from q1 to q2 and $k=\frac{1}{4\pi \varepsilon _{0}}$ is the constant of proportionality.

In SI units, the unit of charge is coulomb. The experimental value of the constant $\varepsilon _{0}$ is 

$\varepsilon _{0}=8.854\times 10^{-12}C^{2}N^{-}M^{-2}$

The approximate value of k is- 9\times $10^{9}Nm^2C^{-2}$

  • Superposition Principle: The principle is based on the property that the forces with which two charges attract or repel each other are not affected by the presence of a third (or more) additional charge(s). For an assembly of charges Q1, Q2, Q3..., the force on any charge, say Q1, is the vector sum of the force on  Q1 due to Q2, the force on Q1 due to Q3, and so on. For each pair, the force is given by Coulomb's law for two charges stated earlier.

  • An electric field line is a curve drawn in such a way that the tangent at each point on the curve gives the direction of the electric field at that point. The relative closeness of field lines indicates the relative strength of electric field at different points; they crowd near each other in regions of strong electric field and are far apart where the electric field is weak. In regions of constant electric field, the field lines are uniformly spaced parallel straight lines.


the field lines are uniformly spaced parallel straight lines


  • Some of the important properties of field lines are: (i) Field lines are continuous curves without any breaks. (ii) Two field lines cannot cross each other. (iii) Electrostatic field lines start at positive charges and end at negative charges (iv) They cannot form closed loops.


Field lines are continuous curves without any breaks


Two field lines cannot cross each other


  • Electric flux is the measure of the field lines crossing a surface. It is scalar quantity, with SI unit $\frac{N}{C}$-m2 or V-m. “The number of field lines passing through perpendicular unit area will be proportional to the magnitude of Electric Field there” 

  • Gauss’s law: The flux of electric field through any closed surface S is $1/\varepsilon _0$ times the total charge enclosed by S. The law is especially useful in determining electric field E, when the source distribution has simple symmetry.

  • An electric dipole is a pair of equal and opposite charges q and –q separated by some distance 2a. Its dipole moment vector p has magnitude 2qa and is in the direction of the dipole axis from –q to q.

  • Field of an electric dipole in its equatorial plane (i.e., the plane perpendicular to its axis and passing through its centre) at a distance r from the centre:

$E=\frac{-P}{4\pi \varepsilon _0}\frac{1}{(\alpha^2+r^2)^{3/2}}\cong \frac{-P}{4\pi \varepsilon _0r^3}.\,\text{for}\,r\gg \alpha $


Field of an electric dipole in its equatorial plane


Dipole electric field on the axis at a distance r from the centre:

$E=\frac{2pr}{4\pi\varepsilon_0(r^2-\alpha^2)^3}\cong \frac{2{p}}{4\pi\varepsilon_0{r}^3}\,\,\text{for}\,\,r\gg\alpha$


ependence of dipole electric fields should be noted in contrast


The 1/r3 dependence of dipole electric fields should be noted in contrast to the 1/r2 dependence of electric field due to a point charge.

  • In a uniform electric field E, a dipole experiences a torque  τ given by: τ = p × E

but experiences no net force.


In a uniform electric field E, a dipole experiences a torque


  • Electric Field Due to Various Uniform Charge Distribution


(i) At the centre of circular arc 

At the centre of circular arc

$E=\frac{kQ}{R^2}\frac{\text{sin}(\theta/2)}{\theta/2}$

(ii) At a point on the axis of ring

At a point on the axis of ring

$E=\frac{kQx}{(R^2+x^2)^{3/2}}$

At a point on the axis of ring 2

(iii) At a point on the axis of disc


At a point on the axis of disc

$E=\frac{2kQ}{R^2}\left [ 1-\frac{x}{(R^2+x^2)^{3/2}} \right ]$

(iv) Hollow sphere


Hollow sphere

For x < R: E = 0

For x  ≥  R: $E=\frac{kQ}{x^2}$


Hollow sphere 2

(v) Non conducting solid sphere


Non conducting solid sphere

For x < R: $E=\frac{kQx}{R^3}$

For x ≥ R: $E=\frac{kQ}{x^2}$


Non conducting solid sphere 2

(vi) Infinite thin sheet


Infinite thin sheet

$E=\frac{\sigma }{2\varepsilon _0}$

(vii) Infinite wire


Infinite wire

$E=\frac{2k\lambda}{x}$



Overview of Deleted Syllabus for CBSE Class 12 Physics Electric Charges and Fields

Chapter

Dropped Topics

Electric Charges and Fields

1.2 Electric Charge (delete only activity with paper strips and making electroscope)

1.3 Conductors and Insulators (delete only the concept of earthing)

1.4 Charging by Induction

Exercises 1.13

1.25–1.34



Conclusion

NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 - Electric Charges And Fields focuses on mastering fundamental concepts like Coulomb's law, electric field, Gauss's law, and electric dipole. It's important to understand these principles and their applications thoroughly. Key topics include electric charge properties, force interactions between multiple charges, electric flux, and the behaviour of electric fields in various configurations. Previous year question papers often include 17 marks (5-6 questions) worth of questions from this chapter, emphasizing its importance in the exam. Focus on practising both exercise and additional questions provided in the NCERT solutions to solidify your understanding and improve exam performance.


Other Study Material for CBSE Class 12 Physics Chapter 1



Chapter-Specific NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics

Given below are the chapter-wise NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics. Go through these chapter-wise solutions to be thoroughly familiar with the concepts.




Related Links for NCERT Class 12 Physics in Hindi

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Chapter-Specific NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics

Given below are the chapter-wise NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics. Go through these chapter-wise solutions to be thoroughly familiar with the concepts.


FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Electric Charges and Fields

1. What are the Benefits of Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 NCERT Solutions?

NCERT Solutions of the chapter of Electric Charges and Fields class 12 come with an elaborate discussion of the topic and subtopics. Moreover, the solutions are explained in a simple manner for a better understanding of the concepts.


Students who want to ace in the CBSE 12th board examination as well as in competitive exams like JEE can seek the guidance of NCERT solutions. The solutions are created in light of the latest CBSE guidelines that help students to secure better marks. Students can completely rely on the solutions provided by Vedantu, as these are all solved by the subject matter expert of Physics.

2. How can I get the NCERT Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 PDF?

The NCERT solutions of Physics class 12 chapter 1 PDF can be downloaded from the Vedantu website and mobile application. Therefore, students who are facing problems in solving the very first chapter of class 12 Physics can seek guidance in the NCERT solutions. The way every solution is described has been considered helpful. Interestingly, students can download this PDF for absolutely free.

3. What are the Subtopics of the Chapter Electric Charges and Fields?

The first chapter of Physics Class 12 Electric Charges and Fields consists of several sub-topics under it, and these are as follows. 

  1. Introduction

  2. Electric Charge

  3. Conductors and Insulators

  4. Charging by Induction

  5. Basic properties of Electric Charge

  6. Coulomb’s Law

  7. Forces between multiple charges

  8. Electric fields

  9. Electric field lines

  10. Electric flux

  11. Electric Dipole

  12. Dipole in a uniform external field

  13. Continuous charge distribution

  14. Gauss’s Law

  15. Application of Gauss’s Law

Students who want to get an in-depth knowledge of these topics can consult the class 12 Physics chapter 1 NCERT solutions provided by Vedantu.

4. Are the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 sufficient for the exam preparation?

Yes, the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 is sufficient for the exam preparation. The solutions are well detailed and include every important point that will help students to score high. Each numerical problem is explained in a simple manner so that students can clear their basic concepts and learn the approach to solve questions in Physics. They can refer to Vedantu’s revision notes that contain all the important formulas and key points. The solution PDFs and other study materials such as important questions and revision notes can also be downloaded from the Vedantu app as well for free of cost.

5. How do you solve electric charges and fields?

Electric charges and fields are the first chapters of Class 12 Physics. Electric charges and fields are the basics to understand the concepts in further chapters. Solve every problem from your NCERT Physics book. Refer to Vedantu’s Solutions for Class 12 Physics to understand every concept. Every minute detail is included in this material, with an emphasis on strengthening your concept. You can download the Solutions for free from Vedantu’s website. 

6. What is the first chapter of Class 12 Physics?

The first chapter of Class 12 Physics is Electric charges and Fields. It introduces the concepts of charges to the student and how it affects other materials. Students will learn about insulators, conductors, their working procedures, etc. Coulomb’s law and its applications are covered in detail. Vedantu’s NCERT Solution PDF for Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 consists of 34 questions to help students gain command over this topic. It is the best guide to understand the concepts. 

7. What is electric charge and fields?

Electric Charge is the property of a material due to which it experiences a force in an electric, magnetic, or electromagnetic field. There are two different types of charges, positive charge and negative charge. The region around an electrically charged particle up to which it can exert an electrical force on another electrically charged particle is termed an electric field. It can cause either the force of attraction or repulsion, depending on the nature of the charges. 

8. What are some tips to utilise NCERT books effectively for Class 12 exams?

Following are the basic and helpful tips to utilise NCERT books effectively for Class 12 exams:

  • Make a timetable and stick to it. Your timetable should be unique to you and should be according to your needs and capabilities.

  • Do not skip topics. Cover the entire syllabus. If you get stuck at any point, you should immediately get your doubts cleared. Refer to Vedantu’s Solutions for Class 12 to clear all your doubts and strengthen your concepts.

  • Analyse the solutions after you have successfully solved a question. It will help to develop problem-solving capabilities. 

9. What is the focus of Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 NCERT Solutions?

Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 NCERT Solutions focuses on understanding the fundamental principles of electrostatics, which include the nature of electric charges, Coulomb's law, electric fields, and Gauss's law. This chapter lays the groundwork for more advanced topics in electromagnetism.

10. What are electric charges and their properties mentioned in Chapter 1 Physics Class 12?

Electric charges are fundamental properties of matter that cause it to experience a force in an electric field. There are two types of electric charges: positive and negative. Key properties include

  • Quantization: Charge exists in discrete amounts, typically in multiples of the elementary charge (e.g., the charge of a proton or electron).

  • Conservation: The total charge in an isolated system remains constant.

11. How are electric field lines used to represent electric fields in Class 12 Physics Ch 1 NCERT Solutions?

In Electric Charges and Fields Class 12 NCERT Solutions, Electric field lines are imaginary lines that represent the direction and strength of an electric field. They start with positive charges and end with negative charges. The density of these lines indicates the strength of the field: closer lines represent stronger fields.

12. What types of questions are included in the Electric Charges and Fields NCERT Solutions?

The NCERT solutions Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 include a variety of questions such as:

  • Conceptual questions to test understanding of electric charges and fields.

  • Numerical problems involving Coulomb's Law and electric field calculations.

  • Application-based questions using Gauss's Law and electric dipoles.

13. Why is it important to master the concepts in Class 12 Physics Chapter 1 Exercise Solutions?

Mastering the concepts in Chapter 1 Physics Class 12 is crucial because these principles are foundational for advanced topics in electromagnetism. They are also widely applicable in various technological and engineering fields, including the design of electronic components and the study of molecular interactions.