Physics · Electrostatic Potential

The electrostatic potential energy difference between two points \( R \) and \( P \) in an electric field is given by \( \Delta U = U_P - U_R = W_{RP} \). What is the physical significance of this quantity?

1. A
   It depends on the absolute reference point chosen for potential energy.
2. B
   Only the difference in potential energy between two points is physically significant, not the absolute value.
3. C
   It represents the total mechanical energy of the charge-field system at point \( P \).
4. D
   It is equal to the work done by the electrostatic field itself during the displacement.