Two charges particles each having equal charges `2 xx 10^(-5) C` are brought from infinity to within a separation of 10 cm. Calculate the increase in potential energy during the process and the work required for this purpose.

Explanation

`DeltaU=U_(f)-U_(i)-0=U_(r)`
We have to simply calculate the electrostatic potential energy of the given system of charges
`:. DeltaU=U_(f)=1/(4pi epsi_(0)) (q_(1)q_(2))/r=(9xx10^(9)xx2xx10^(-5) xx2xx10^(-5)xx100)/(10) J=36 J`
`:.` Work required `=36 J =` equal to change in potential energy of system