Answer: parallel to.
- A parallel to
- B antiparallel to
- C perpendicular to
- D at 45° to
Correct answer: A. parallel to
Explanation: U = −pE cosθ is least (most negative) when θ = 0°, i.e. parallel alignment.
Field lines always point from positive to negative charge, are denser where the field is stronger, and never cross; an isolated positive charge has lines radiating symmetrically outward, while a dipole's lines curve from the positive to the negative charge.
Concept context
Coulomb's law, electric field, potential, capacitors, Gauss's law.