Question

Choose the best definition of a dipole.

(a) A pair of equal and like charges located at the origin

(b) A pair of unequal and like charges located at the origin

(c) A pair of equal and unlike charges separated by a small distance

(d) A pair of unequal and unlike charges separated by a small distance

The question was asked in exam.

The query is from Electric Dipole in division Electrostatic Fields of Electromagnetic Theory

Answer 1

Right option is (c) A pair of equal and unlike charges separated by a small distance

To explain I would say: An electric dipole generally refers to two equal and unlike (opposite signs) charges separated by a small distance. It can be anywhere, not necessarily at origin.