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⚛️ Physics  ·  Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance  ·  NEET & JEE

Electric flux through a surface is maximum when the surface is _____ to the field:

Answer: Perpendicular.

  • A Parallel
  • B Perpendicular
  • C At 45 degrees
  • D At 60 degrees

Correct answer: B. Perpendicular

Explanation: Flux = E x A x cos(theta). Maximum when theta = 0, i.e., field is perpendicular (normal) to the surface.

Radial electric field lines and concentric red equipotential lines around a point charge (an electron), with field lines pointing inward

Field lines (radial) and equipotential lines (concentric circles) of a point charge. Equipotential surfaces are always perpendicular to the field lines. Image: Sjlegg, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

Concept context

Electric potential, equipotential surfaces, potential energy of charge systems, conductors, dielectrics, capacitors, combinations, and energy storage.

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