Electric Potential Energy and Electric Potential

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to electric potential energy, electric potential, and their differences. It includes definitions, equations, and the principles surrounding how charges behave in electric fields.

What is the relationship between work and gravitational potential energy when moving upwards against gravity?

The work done is negative, and the change in potential energy increases, given by ΔPEg = m g Δy.

What happens to potential energy when an object is moved downwards against gravity?

The change in potential energy is negative.

How is electric potential energy for a charge in a uniform electric field defined?

It can be defined analogously to gravitational potential energy, with ΔEPEe = |q| E Δy for a positive charge moving against the field.

For a positive charge, what is the relationship between movement with and against the electric field?

Moving against the field increases electric potential energy, while moving with the field decreases electric potential energy.

What is the general equation for electric potential energy change for any charge in a uniform field?

ΔEPEe = q E d.

What are equipotential lines and how are they oriented in relation to the electric field?

Equipotential lines are perpendicular to the electric field and parallel to the plates of a capacitor.

What is the equation for electric potential (V) in uniform electric fields?

ΔV = ΔEPEe/q, simplifying to ΔV = E d when moving against the field.

How does the electric potential behave as one moves closer to a positive point charge?

The electric potential increases as one gets closer to a positive charge.

What is the formula for electric potential due to a point charge?

V = k q/r, where r is the distance from the charge.

When calculating total electric potential for multiple point charges, what is the approach?

Total potential is the sum of potentials from each charge: V = V1 + V2 + V3 + … .