A positively charged particle is released from rest in a uniform electric field. The electric potential energy of the charge.

Options

A. remains a constant because the electric field is uniform
B. increases because the cahrge moves along the electric field
C. decreases because the charge moves along the electric field
D. decreses because the charge moves opposite to the electric field

Explanation

To solve the problem of a positively charged particle released from rest in a uniform electric field, we need to analyze how the electric potential energy of the charge changes as it moves. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Setup
A positively charged particle is placed in a uniform electric field. The electric field is defined as a region where a force would be experienced by a charge placed within it. The direction of the electric field is from the positive to the negative charge.

**Hint:** Remember that the electric field direction is crucial in determining how the charge will move.

### Step 2: Initial Conditions
The particle is released from rest, meaning its initial kinetic energy is zero. The electric potential energy (U) of the charge is given by the formula:
\[ U = qV \]
where \( q \) is the charge and \( V \) is the electric potential.

**Hint:** Consider the relationship between electric potential energy and electric potential.

### Step 3: Movement of the Charge
Since the particle is positively charged, it will move in the direction of the electric field. As it moves, it will experience a force due to the electric field, causing it to accelerate.

**Hint:** Recall that a charge will always move from a region of higher potential to lower potential in an electric field.

### Step 4: Change in Electric Potential Energy
As the positively charged particle moves in the direction of the electric field, it moves from a region of higher electric potential to a region of lower electric potential. Therefore, the electric potential energy of the charge decreases.

**Hint:** Electric potential energy decreases when a positive charge moves toward a lower potential.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Since the charge is moving from a higher potential to a lower potential, the electric potential energy of the charge decreases as it moves. Thus, the correct conclusion is that the electric potential energy of the charge decreases.

**Hint:** Always consider the direction of movement in relation to the electric field when analyzing changes in potential energy.

### Final Answer
The electric potential energy of the positively charged particle decreases as it moves in the uniform electric field.

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