Related Formula
WA arrow B = q(VB - VA)$$W_{A \rightarrow B} = q(V_B - V_A)$$
where,
WA arrow B$W_{A \rightarrow B}$ = work done in moving a test charge q$q$ from point A$A$ to B$B$
VA, VB$V_A, V_B$ = electrostatic potentials at points A$A$ and B$B$
Core Logic
For a uniformly charged spherical shell of radius R$R$ and charge Q$Q$, the electric field inside the shell is zero (E = 0$E = 0$).
Consequently, the electric potential V$V$ remains constant throughout the interior of the shell and equals its value on the surface:
Vinside = Vsurface = (1)/(4πε₀) (Q)/(R)$$V_{\text{inside}} = V_{\text{surface}} = \frac{1}{4\pi\varepsilon_0} \frac{Q}{R}$$
Since the potential is identical at all interior points (VA = VB$V_A = V_B$), the potential difference is zero:
Δ V = VB - VA = 0$$\Delta V = V_B - V_A = 0$$
Thus, the work done in moving any test charge inside is strictly zero:
W = q Δ V = 0$$W = q \Delta V = 0$$
Step 1: Analyzing the Statements
- Assertion A: "Work done in moving a test charge inside is zero..." - This is True.
- Reason R: "Electrostatic potential inside is constant and same as on the surface..." - This is True and directly explains why the potential difference Δ V = 0$\Delta V = 0$, making the work done zero.
Therefore, both statements are true and R$R$ is the correct explanation of A$A$.
Pattern Recognition
Sees: "Uniformly charged spherical shell" + "Work done inside" → Potential difference Δ V = 0 W = 0$\Delta V = 0 \implies W = 0$.
Shortcut: Since Einside = 0$E_{\text{inside}} = 0$, potential inside is flat/constant. No potential difference means zero work. Both statements are true and connected. ✓
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Physics: Electrostatics