Question

In a non-uniform electric field, why does the net force on a dipole become non-zero?

Options

• Because the forces on +q and -q have unequal magnitudes

• Because the dipole moment changes

• Because the field becomes uniform locally

• Because the dipole rotates faster

Answer 1

In a non-uniform field, the electric field strength is different at the location of the positive charge compared to the negative charge. Therefore, the force on +q (magnitude F₊ = qE₊) differs from the force on -q (magnitude F₋ = qE₋), resulting in a non-zero net force that causes the dipole to translate toward the region of stronger field.