The curve represents the distribution of potential along the staight line joining the two charges `Q_1 and Q_2` (separated by a distance r) then which of the following statements are correct?

1. `|Q_1|gt|Q_2|`
2. `Q_1` is positive in nature
3. A and B are equilibrium points
4. C is a point of unstabkle equilibrium

Options

A. `|Q_(1)| gt |Q_(2)|`
B. `Q_(1)` is positive in nature
C. `A` and `B` are equilbrium points
D. `C` is a point of unstable equilibrium

Answer

C

Explanation

The potential near a positive charge is positive and that near a negative charge is negative.
From figure `Q_(1)` is positive and `Q_(2)` is negative.
As at point 'C' the potential is positive despite the point being closer to the negative charge.
Hence `|Q_(1)|gt |Q_(2)|`.
Also point `C` is a point of local maxima for potential energy. hence, it is a point of unstable equilibrium .
Also, at points `A` and `B(dU)/(dx) !=0`, hence they are not the points of equilibrium.
Hence `(c)`is the set of correct statements.