The following picture displays a map of potential difference (vertical axis) for an unknown configuration of charges as a function of x- and y-coordinates (horizontal axes). What is the force experienced by a charged particle placed in the electric field of these charges along

Direction 1: Force is Non-zero and Not- constant

Direction 2: Force is Non-zero but constant  

Explanation:

Given:

The picture of the map is attached. ( Missing from the question ).

Find:

The effect of force as it travels along each direction.

Solution:

- We know the relationship between change in potential and the force acting on the charge particle is given by:

                               F = - q*dV/ dr

Where,

q : Charge of the particle

V : Volt potential

dV/dr : Potential difference along a direction.

Direction 1:

- The color code of the map changes as the particle moves along this direction. Each color code represents a potential difference. So as the particle moves between different potential difference then according to the relationship given above The force varies along varies as particle moves from one color to another. Hence, a non zero force but not constant.

Direction 2:

- In the direction 2, the charged particle moves along the same color. The potential difference for each color is constant. Hence, according to the relationship of potential difference and force. If potential difference is constant then the Electrostatic Force on the charge is also constant. Hence, Force is non-zero and constant.

when it gains or loses electrons

powerful computers now, not then