JEE Physics · Hard

Electrostatics: Electric Potential MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

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Electric PotentialHardQuestion 31477

Question

Equipotential surface through a point in free space must be:
  1. A
    Always a sphere
  2. B
    Perpendicular to E at every point on it
    Correct
  3. C
    Parallel to the nearest conductor
  4. D
    Always flat

Correct answer

Perpendicular to E at every point on it

Explanation

By definition: E = −∇V. On an equipotential surface, V = const → ∇V along surface = 0 → E is perpendicular to the surface at every point.