What is the force on a charged particle due to an electric field called?

Prepare for your Electricity and Magnetism Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the force on a charged particle due to an electric field called?

Explanation:
The force a charged particle experiences in an electric field is called the electric force. It follows F = qE, so the magnitude is |F| = |q|E and the direction is along the field for a positive charge and opposite to the field for a negative charge. This distinguishes it from the magnetic force, which depends on motion through a magnetic field (F = q v × B); gravitational force, which depends on mass in a gravitational field (F = mg); and nuclear forces, which are not due to electric fields.

The force a charged particle experiences in an electric field is called the electric force. It follows F = qE, so the magnitude is |F| = |q|E and the direction is along the field for a positive charge and opposite to the field for a negative charge. This distinguishes it from the magnetic force, which depends on motion through a magnetic field (F = q v × B); gravitational force, which depends on mass in a gravitational field (F = mg); and nuclear forces, which are not due to electric fields.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy