Q13CQ - College Physics (Urone)

Question

Can different equipotential lines cross? Explain.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

No, the different equipotential lines cannot cross each other.

Step 1: Definition of Equipotential Lines

If along a line, the electric potential is constant at all points, it is known as an equipotential line. A three-dimensional manifestation of an equipotential line is an equipotential surface.

Step 2: Explaining whether it is possible for different equipotential lines to cross?

The equipotential lines have the same value of the potential at every point. So, if two equipotential lines having different potentials intersect at any point, that point will have two potentials simultaneously. This is not possible. Thus, two equipotential lines can never intersect.