Question

A negative point charge is brought in an uniform electric field. The electric field at a nearby point

• A. may increase
• B. may decrease
• C. both $\left(a\right)$ and $\left(b\right)$
• D. remain unchanged

Answer 1

The correct option is C both $\left(a\right)$ and $\left(b\right)$

Suppose uniform electric field is $E$ and due to negative point charge at a nearby point, electric field is $E_0$.


We know that electric field intensity is a vector quantity and follow the vector addition rule.

At point $\text{A}$,

$E$ and $E_0$ are in opposite direction, thus net electric field decreases.

At point $\text{B}$,

$E$ and $E_0$ are in the same direction, thus the net electric field increases.

Therefore, at a nearby point, electric field may increase or may decrease.

Hence, option $\left(c\right)$ is correct.