Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Electric potential

Electric potential — practice question

(a)[2]

Define electric potential at a point in terms of the work done per unit charge.

(b)

As shown in Fig. 5.1, two point charges A and B are separated by $12.0\,\text{cm}$ in a vacuum. Charge A is $+2.0 \times 10^{-9}\,\text{C}$. Point P lies on the straight line joining A and B, and its distance from A is $x$. Fig. 5.2 shows how the electric potential $V$ at P varies with $x$.

(b(i))[3]

Use Fig. 5.2 to determine the charge on B.

(b(ii))[1]

Use Fig. 5.2 to find the change in electric potential as point P moves from $x = 9.0\,\text{cm}$ to $x = 3.0\,\text{cm}$.

(c)[3]

In Fig. 5.1, an $\alpha$-particle travels along the line joining point charges A and B. It goes from the position where $x = 9.0\,\text{cm}$ and just reaches the position where $x = 3.0\,\text{cm}$. Use your answer to (b)(ii) to calculate the speed $v$ of the $\alpha$-particle at the position where $x = 9.0\,\text{cm}$.

(i)[3]

the charge carried by B.

(ii)[1]

the electric potential change when point P moves from the position where $x = 9.0\,\text{cm}$ to the position where $x = 3.0\,\text{cm}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 13-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: work carried out per unit charge

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