Concept explainers
If two points are at the same potential, does this mean that no work is done in moving a test charge from one point to the other? Does this imply that no force must be exerted? Explain.
Is there any work needed to be done between the points on an equipotential surface and what about the force.
Answer to Problem 1Q
The total work done is zero on an equipotential surface and there would have non-zero force.
Explanation of Solution
When the two points are in same potential there is no work need to be done between those points.
Since the work is depends on the path followed. It is possible for a positive work for one path and negative work for other path, while the total work done must be zero.
There must be a non-zero force exerted over the two parts and does not imply that the force is necessarily zero.
Conclusion:
Therefore, the total work done is zero on an equipotential surface and there would have non-zero force.
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