Question

In some old texts it is mentioned that 4π lines of force originate from each unit
positive charge. Comment on this statement in view of the fact that 4π is not an
integer.
​

Answer 1

Explanation:

As we know that the full solid angle value is 4π. So it is assumed that number of lines of force  that a unit positive charge produce in a unit solid angle is 1.

therefore if number of lines in a unit solid angle is 1 so number of lines in  a full solid angle ( which is 4π) will be equal to 4π.

(but as per my knowledge , this theory is regarded as a crude theory which is not found in our textbooks noww)

I HOPE IT WILL HELP U!!

Answer 2

Explanation:

• The minimum solid angle is 4 π. "4π lines of force" is just a way of stating that the field lines extend uniformly away from the charge in all directions.
• 4 π is the number of 3-dimensional steradians. ie, the solid angle is total. Saying 4 π lines of force is just one way of saying that the field lines extend uniformly away from the charge in all directions.
• Force lines are a conceptual tool to help us understand what's going on, not physical objects that you can see and rely on.
• The 4 π is the constant which makes the calculations consistent with experimental measures