A small object of mass M and charge Q is connected to an insulating massless string in a vaccum on Earth. A uniform electric field exists throughout the region of the vaccum as indicated. The mass rem

Question

A small object of mass M and charge Q is connected to an insulating massless string in a vaccum on Earth. A uniform electric field exists throughout the region of the vaccum as indicated. The mass remains in static equilibrium at an angle of $θ$ with the vertical as shown in the figure. When the string is cut, which of the illustrated paths best indicates the trajectory of the mass ?

TestHub · Accepted Answer

In equilibrium the net of gravity and electric force balances the tension.

When the string is cut, the remaining force (mg + qE) is constant in magnitude and direction, and the mass starts from rest.

From rest under a constant net force it moves in a straight line along the resultant: path II. Option (B).

Physics - Electrostatics Question with Solution | TestHub

Options:

Doubts & Discussion