Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The capacitance will double, and the electric field will halve.
B
The capacitance will remain the same, and the electric field will double.
C
The capacitance will decrease, and the electric field will remain unchanged.
D
The capacitance will double, and the electric field will remain unchanged.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
When the dielectric constant εr is doubled, the capacitance of the parallel‑plate capacitor also doubles because C = ε0 εr A/d. With the charge Q fixed, the voltage across the plates becomes V = Q/C, so the voltage drops to half its original value. Since the electric field between the plates is E = V/d, the field likewise halves. For example, if εr changes from 2 to 4, a 10 µF capacitor becomes 20 µF; with the same 5 µC of charge, the voltage falls from 0. 5 V to 0.
Detailed Explanation
Capacitance is directly proportional to the dielectric constant, so doubling it doubles the capacitance. Other options are incorrect because Some think the dielectric does not change capacitance, but it does; The misconception is that a larger dielectric constant reduces capacitance.
Key Concepts
Polarization in Dielectrics
Gauss's Law
Capacitance of Parallel Plate Capacitors
Topic
Electric Fields and Dielectrics
Difficulty
hard level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1In a parallel plate capacitor filled with a dielectric material, how does the induced charge distribution on the plates change when the dielectric is polarized in an external electric field?
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2
Question 2In a dielectric material subjected to an alternating electric field, what effect does a high dielectric constant have on dielectric loss?
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3
Question 3How does inserting a dielectric material into a capacitor affect the charge on its plates?
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4
Question 4Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the effect of a dielectric material on a capacitor's electric field and charge flow?
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5
Question 5When a dielectric material is inserted into a capacitor, what is the primary effect on the electric field within the capacitor?
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