[Physics] electric potential at center of uniform electric field

electric-fieldselectrostatics

it is said that the electric potential at the center of uniform electric field is zero.
my question is that why is it zero?
electric potential is the work done per unit charge.

$V = W/q$

and this work is continuously done on a positive test charge if it (charge) is placed in the electric field.

Best Answer

Consider two equal and opposite charges ($+q$ & $-q$) in space separated by a distance $2r$. An uniform electric field would exist between both acting from $+q$ to $-q$. The first thing is, Electric potential is a scalar quantity whereas Electric field is a vector..! In other words, Electric field is a measure of how the electric potential changes quickly with distance (gradient or the first derivative).

The electric potential at a distance $r$ from $+q$ would be $V_1=\frac{kq}r$

Now, the electric potential at a distance $r$ from $-q$ is $V_2=-\frac{kq}{r}$

The net (effective) potential at midpoint ($r$) is $V=V_1+V_2=0$

In case of Electric field, it is non-zero. Because, we would specify the direction only...


Regarding your case, A test (point) charge not necessarily positive. It's just to indicate the existence of an electric field. In presence of a charge, the test charge would experience a force. That's all :-)

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