Question

A dielectric develops a ________ in an external electric field.

• A. Net dipole moment
• B. Zero dipole moment
• C. Zero charge separation
• D. Positive charge

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Net dipole moment

1. Dielectrics are insulators and consist of randomly aligned dipoles.
2. On the application of an external electric field, the randomly aligned dipoles align in the direction of the electric field.
3. The dielectric material gets polarised when it is placed in an external electric field as depicted by the diagram shown below.

4. Due to the polarisation, there exists a net dipole moment on the dielectric placed in an external electric field.

Hence, option A is correct.