Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (3rd Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321740904
ISBN 13: 978-0-32174-090-8

Chapter 28 - The Electric Potential - Exercises and Problems - Page 833: 9

Answer

a) $-1\;\rm \mu J$ b) $1\;\rm \mu J$

Work Step by Step

$$\color{blue}{\bf [a]}$$ We know that the mechanical energy is given by $$E=U+K$$ This mechanical energy is constant and since the dipole oscillates between $\pm 60^\circ$, its kinetic energy at $\pm 60^\circ$ must be zero. And hence, at $\pm 60^\circ$, its potential energy is given by $$U_{\rm dipole}=-pE\cos\phi=-0.5 pE$$ where $pE$, from the given graph, is the maximum potential energy of the dipole, 2 $\rm \mu J$. $$U_{\rm dipole} =-0.5(2)=-1\;\rm \mu J$$ $$E_{\rm at \pm 60}=-1+0=\color{red}{\bf-1.0}\; \mu J$$ $$\color{blue}{\bf [b]}$$ We know that the mechanical energy is conserved, so $$K+U=-1\;\rm \mu J$$ when it the dipole aligned with $\vec E$, $U=-pE\cos0^\circ=-pE=-2\;\rm \mu J$ $$K-2=-1 $$ Hence $$K=\color{red}{\bf 1.0}\;\rm \mu J$$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.