Question Detail

PHY 102 ELECTROSTATICS Objective Question

Question

According to the document, if a charge is located outside a closed surface, how does it contribute to the electric flux out of that surface?
Options
A It contributes a positive electric flux.
B It contributes a negative electric flux.
C It contributes zero electric flux.
Correct Answer
D Its contribution depends on the shape of the surface.
Correct Answer

Option C is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

The document states, 'If the surface does not enclose any particular charge, such a charge does not contribute to the electric flux out of the surface. This is because the field of the charge crosses the surface equal times in and out.' (page 14, Fig. 2.10 and accompanying text).

Hint

Consider how field lines from an external charge would pass through a closed surface.

Question Info