Question

The extent of polarization depends on

• A. Dipole potential energy
• B. Thermal energy
• C. Dipole potential energy and thermal energy
• D. Kinetic energy of bound charges

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Dipole potential energy and thermal energy

The extent of polarization depends on the relative strength of two mutually opposite factors: the dipole potential energy in the external field tending to align the dipoles with the field and thermal energy tending to disrupt the alignment.