A dipole is placed in an electric field as shown. In which direction will it move ?
Answer: (C) towards the right as its potential energy will decrease.
Concept. In a non-uniform field the forces on the two charges of a dipole differ; equivalently, the dipole moves to lower its energy $U = -\vec p \cdot \vec E$.
Step 1. Field. The lines spread out to the right, so the field is stronger on the left.
Step 2. Forces. $+q$ (left, stronger field) is pushed right more strongly than $-q$ (right, weaker field) is pulled left: net force to the right.
Step 3. Energy. $\vec p$ points left, opposite to $\vec E$, so $U = +pE$; moving right into weaker field lowers $U$.
Answer. Towards the right as its potential energy will decrease (Option C).
Solution by Sreeraj P, M.Sc Physics