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Question 31493
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Electrostatics: Dielectric Breakdown MCQ

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Dielectric BreakdownHardQuestion 31493

Question

Dielectric breakdown (sparking) occurs when electric field exceeds:
  1. A
    E = V/d for any value
  2. B
    Dielectric strength of material (e.g., 3 MV/m for air)
    Correct
  3. C
    E₀ = σ/ε₀
  4. D
    Any non-zero field

Correct answer

Dielectric strength of material (e.g., 3 MV/m for air)

Explanation

Every insulator has a dielectric strength — maximum field before breakdown (ionisation/conduction). For air: ≈ 3×10⁶ V/m. Lightning occurs when charge buildup exceeds this threshold.

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