Untitled Flashcards Set

Electric Charge:

Proton:

Electrostatics Definitions

The source of electric forces. There are two types of charge, positive and negative.

One of the three types of particles that make up atoms. Protons are in the nucleus of atoms, and have positive charge.

One of the three types of particles that make up atoms. Electrons orbit the nucleus of atoms, and have negative charge.

Neutron:

One of the three types of particles that make up atoms. Neutrons are in the nucleus of atoms (at the center) and do not have any charge.

    Electron:

   Attractive Force:

A force which causes two objects to be pulled towards each other. Gravity is an example of a force that is always attractive.

Repulsive Force:

A force which causes two objects to push away from each other.

Electrically Neutral:

When an object has the same number of positive and negative charges. Most matter is usually electrically neutral.

Net Charge:

The sum of the charges on an object. If there are more protons than electrons on an object, then the net charge is positive. If there are more electrons than protons, the net charge is negative.

   Static: Static Charge:

Electrical Conductor:

Electrical Insulator:

Not moving

Non-zero net charge that is not moving.

Any material within which electrons can move freely. These are mostly metals.

Materials within which electrons cannot move freely. Examples of insulators are the rubber or plastic used to cover electrical wires.