Question

Which of the following statements about dielectrics is correct?

• A. \( \) A polar dielectric has a net dipole moment in absence of an external electric field, which gets modified due to the induced dipoles.
• B. \( \) The net dipole moments of induced dipoles are along the direction of the applied electric field.
• C. \( \) Dielectrics contain free charges.
• D. \( \) The electric field produced due to induced surface charges inside a dielectric is along the external electric field.

Hint:

In dielectrics, the induced dipoles align with the applied electric field, creating an opposing electric field that reduces the field inside the material.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Application of an external electric field to a dielectric material induces charge separation within its molecules. This alignment of dipoles with the external field leads to a net induced dipole moment parallel to the applied field.Step 2: The alternative options are erroneous:- Option (A) is incorrect as polar dielectrics possess a net dipole moment even without an external electric field.- Option (C) is incorrect; dielectrics are insulators characterized by bound charges, not free charges, that react to external electric fields.- Option (D) is incorrect because the electric field generated by induced surface charges counteracts the applied electric field within the dielectric.