Question

During the inward motion of a positive test charge toward a fixed positive charge, the electrostatic field ______ the inward motion.

Options

• opposes

• assists

• has no effect on

• is always perpendicular to

Answer 1

Since like charges repel, the electrostatic field opposes the inward motion of the positive test charge. Consequently, the external force must supply energy to the system, and this supplied energy appears as an increase in electrostatic potential energy.