Consider a simple parallel-plate capacitor whose plates are given equal and are separated by a distance d. The plates are connected to opposite terminals of a battery. The plates remain connected to the battery while being pulled apart by a scientist with insulating gloves until they are separated by a distance D>d. The electric energy stored in the capacitor is now smaller. Where did the energy go?

A) the battery

B) the scientist

C) North Dakota

D) indeterminate

Solution