Question

As one moves away from a point charge the potential will

• A. Increase
• B. Decrease
• C. Be constant
• D. Depend on charge

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Depend on charge

Answer 2

The electric potential due to a point charge $q$ at a distance $r$ is $V = \frac{kq}{r}$. As distance $r$ increases, the potential's behavior depends on the sign of $q$. If $q$ is positive, $V$ is positive and decreases as $r$ increases. If $q$ is negative, $V$ is negative and increases (becomes less negative) as $r$ increases. Hence, the change in potential (increase or decrease) depends on the charge $q$.