Question

Regarding the direction of the electric field vector, which statement is strictly correct?

Options

• The electric field is oriented parallel to the equipotential surface.

• The electric field is in the direction in which the potential decreases most steeply.

• The electric field is in the direction in which the potential increases most steeply.

• The electric field points in the direction of zero change in potential.

Answer 1

A key conclusion of the potential gradient derivation is that the electric field is in the direction in which the potential decreases most steeply (the direction of maximum negative potential gradient).