Electrostatics and Electric Fields

A set of flashcards covering fundamental concepts related to electrostatics and electric fields based on lecture notes.

What is the formula for Coulomb's Law?

The formula for Coulomb's Law is F = k * (q1 * q2) / r^2, where F is the force between the charges, k is the Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the charges, and r is the distance between the charges.

What does it mean for forces between like charges?

For like charges, such as two positive charges, the force is repulsive.

What does it mean for forces between opposite charges?

For opposite charges, such as a positive charge and a negative charge, the force is attractive.

What is the electric field (E) in terms of force and charge?

The electric field (E) is defined as the force (F) per unit charge (q): E = F/q.

How can electric field lines be visually represented?

Electric field lines begin on positive charges and end on negative charges, showing the direction of the field.

What is a test charge in the context of electric fields?

A test charge is a small charge used to measure the electric field created by a larger charge without significantly affecting the field.

What is the relationship between the electric field and the distance from a charge?

The strength of the electric field decreases with increasing distance from the charge.

What is the significance of the direction of electric field lines?

The direction of electric field lines indicates the direction of the force that a positive test charge would experience in the field.

What happens to electric field lines when they are close to a charge?

Electric field lines are closer together near the charge, indicating a stronger electric field.

What is the resulting force on a test charge placed in an electric field?

The resulting force on a test charge is calculated by multiplying the electric field (E) by the magnitude of the test charge (q).