Correct AnswerB. Along the line tangent to the electric field
Quick Explanation
At any point, the electric-field vector points along the tangent to the electric-field line at that point. The arrow direction is the direction in which a positive test charge would experience force.
Formula / Key Relation
E = F/q
Direction of E = tangent to the electric-field line, in the direction of force on a positive test charge.
Detailed Explanation
Concept & ReasoningElectric-field lines are a graphical representation of the vector field E. A field line is drawn so that its tangent at every point is parallel to the local electric-field vector. Therefore, a point does not have a field direction perpendicular to the line or a random direction. The convention is based on the force on a positive test charge: E = F/q for a sufficiently small positive q.How to Solve It in the ExamTangent to the field line = field direction.Important Exam PointWhenever a question asks the direction at a point on a field line, visualize a tangent…
Concept & Reasoning
Electric-field lines are a graphical representation of the vector field E. A field line is drawn so that its tangent at every point is parallel to the local electric-field vector. Therefore, a point does not have a field direction perpendicular to the line or a random direction. The convention is based on the force on a positive test charge: E = F/q for a sufficiently small positive q.
How to Solve It in the Exam
Tangent to the field line = field direction.
Important Exam Point
Whenever a question asks the direction at a point on a field line, visualize a tangent arrow at that point.
Related Revision Path
This question sits in the revision path Electromagnetic Fields → Electric Field → Field Lines .
Quick Trick
Tangent to the field line = field direction.
Common Mistake
Perpendicular direction is associated with equipotential surfaces, not with the electric-field line itself.
Exam Tip
Whenever a question asks the direction at a point on a field line, visualize a tangent arrow at that point.
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