Electric Field

Electric Field

An electric field is a region where an electric charge experiences an electric force.

The direction of electric field is the direction of force on a small positive charge.

It is represented by lines with arrows to indicate the direction of force.

Field patterns between two charges

Note that X is the neutral point where the electric fields from both charges cancel out each other. There is no electric effect at X.
Note:
  • Electric field lines must not cross each other.
  • The closer the field lines, the stronger the field is. 

Field patterns between charged parallel plates

Note 
  • Arc only occurs at the edge of parallel plates.
  • The electric field between parallel plates are uniform, thus parallel electric field lines.
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