GS3: Electrostatic Force

electrostatic force

The force between electrically charged objects

opposite charges _____

attract

same charges _____

repel

factors affecting electrostatic force

distance (closer = more force) and net charge charge of the objects (net charge further from 0 = more force)

how electrostatic force is related to Earth's formation

In space, 4.6 billion years ago, as mineral grains from the solar dust cloud bumped into each other, this force made the materials clump together.

to calculate net charge

add up all the charges on the object

Positive

Fewer electrons on the object from when it once was neutral

Negative

Added electrons on the object from when it once was neutral

Field Lines

Invisible & can be represented with field lines

No charge; most objects

neutral

Electric Force

push or pull between two or more charged objects