AC dielectrics and ideal capacitor behavior: In a perfect capacitor, current density leads the electric field by 90°. Given J = ω * epsilon_0 * epsilon_r' * E0 * cos(ωt + 90°), and that dielectric losses are zero, evaluate the assertion–reason pair.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Both A and R are true and R is correct explanation of A

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
In linear dielectrics driven by a sinusoidal field, displacement current density J_d is related to the time derivative of the electric displacement D. For an ideal (lossless) dielectric, the complex permittivity is purely real; hence current and field are in perfect quadrature (90° phase difference).


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Perfect capacitor: no conduction loss and no dielectric loss (loss tangent = 0).
  • epsilon_r' denotes the real (in-phase permittivity) part used in the expression.
  • E(t) = E0 cos(ωt) is the applied field.


Concept / Approach:

For a perfect capacitor, D = epsilon_0 * epsilon_r' * E, and J_d = dD/dt = omega * epsilon_0 * epsilon_r' * E0 * sin(ωt). Since sin(ωt) = cos(ωt + 90°), J leads E by 90°. Zero dielectric losses imply no in-phase component of current with voltage; all current is reactive, which explains the 90° lead and the stated form of J.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Write D(t) = epsilon_0 * epsilon_r' * E0 * cos(ωt).Differentiate: J_d = dD/dt = −omega * epsilon_0 * epsilon_r' * E0 * sin(ωt − 90°) = omega * epsilon_0 * epsilon_r' * E0 * cos(ωt + 90°).Phase relationship: J leads E by 90° in lossless dielectrics.


Verification / Alternative check:

Introducing dielectric loss adds an imaginary part to permittivity; the current then has a component in phase with E, reducing the phase lead below 90°. In the perfect case (loss = 0), the 90° lead is exact.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • If losses were not zero, the exact 90° relation would not hold.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing conduction current (σE) with displacement current (dD/dt).


Final Answer:

Both A and R are true and R is correct explanation of A

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