Derive an expression for torque acting on an electric dipole placed in a uniform electric filed. (2M)

An electric dipole is placed in an uniform electric field as shown in the figure.


The force on charge +q,FA=qE along the direction of EThe force on charge -q,FB=qE opposite to the direction of EAs these two forces are equal, unlike and parallel so they form a couple.AC is drawn perpendicular to E.The perpendicular distance between the forces = arm of couple=ACtherefore, torque acting,τ=Force×Arm of coupleτ=F×ABsinθτ=qE×2asinθτ=(q×2a)Esinθτ=pEsinθτ=p×E

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