What is the direction of the vector of electric dipole moment?

• A. From positive to negative
• B. From negative to positive.
• C. Unchanged.
• D. Negative axis only.

The electric dipole moment is a vector quantity that represents the separation of positive and negative charges. Its direction is defined as pointing from the negative charge to the positive charge.

Correct Answer

The correct choice is A. From positive to negative.

Understanding the Concept

• The dipole moment is denoted by the symbol **p**.
• It is calculated as the product of the charge and the distance between the charges.
• In a dipole, the positive charge is conventionally considered to be at the head of the vector, while the negative charge is at the tail.

Visual Representation

Imagine a simple dipole with a positive charge (+q) on one end and a negative charge (-q) on the other. The vector points from the negative charge to the positive charge, illustrating the direction of the dipole moment.

Applications

Electric dipole moments are important in various fields, including chemistry and physics, as they influence molecular interactions and the behavior of materials in electric fields.