Two charges,each of charge q,are separated by a distance d.The distance between the charges is doubled.If the original potential energy of the arrangement was 40 mJ,by how much does the potential energy change when the charges are moved to the increased distance?
A) It decreases by more than 20 mJ.
B) It decreases by less than 20 mJ
C) More information is needed.
D) It decreases by 20 mJ.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential energy between two charges is inversely proportional to the distance between them. Doubling the distance halves the potential energy, so it decreases by 20 mJ (from 40 mJ to 20 mJ).

Two Charges,each of Charge Q,are Separated by a Distance D