If the distance between two point charges its increased by a factor of four, the magnitude of the electrostatic force between them will be
- A.1/4 of its former value
- B.1/16 of its former value
- C.1/2 of its former value
-
D.
4 times its former value
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
For the two point charges, the magnitude of the electrostatic force between them is given by the equation:
F ∝ 1/r2, and if the distance is increased by a factor of 4, that is new distance = 4r,
then, new force F ∝ 1/(4r)2
= ∝ 1/16r2
Thus it will be 1/16 of the former value