Difference between potential energy of single point charge and potential energy of dipole

Difference between potential energy of single point charge and potential energy of dipole

Potential energy is  the energy of an object due to its relative position to the other object. The electronic potential energy of point system is work required to bring the system of charges close together from infinite distance. Electronic potential energy is when we move an object in the oppose of the electric field so it gains some amount energy which is nothing but the electric potential energy. Electric potential is scalar quantity and its unit is Joules/Coulomb. Dipole is nothing but the two charges one is positive and another is negative and they are separated by the small distance. The difference between them is as follows.

              Potential energy of single point                     Potential energy of dipole
1)      Potential energy  of a single point is zero because there is no other point charge as a source of electrostatic force on which it can exert a force and work.

2)      In the uniform electric field potential energy of single point do not experience a torque.

3)      UE (r) = q (r)

1)      Potential energy of dipole is not zero but it vary as when is acute (i.e less than 90 degree)  it is negative and it is positive when is obtuse (i.e greater than 90 degree)

2)      In the uniform electric field potential energy of dipole experience a torque.

3)      UDipole = -pE cos = -p.E

Updated: December 14, 2021 — 12:30 pm

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