Electric Fields Flashcards
What is an electric field?
An electric field is a region around a charged object where it exerts a force on other electric charges.
What causes electric fields
Electric fields are created by electric charges, similar to how gravitational fields are caused by mass.
What is the direction of an electric field
The electric field points:
Away from positive charges.
Toward negative charges.
How is an electric field similar to gravitational and magnetic fields?
Gravitational Field: Caused by mass, always attracts.
Magnetic Field: Caused by magnets or moving charges.
Electric Field: Caused by electric charges, can attract or repel.
All three are invisible force fields that act at a distance
What is one hazard of static electricity
Lightning strikes – static charge builds up in clouds and discharges to the ground, causing damage or injury
What is one useful application of static electricity
Electrostatic painting – charged paint droplets are attracted to the oppositely charged object, giving an even coat and reducing waste.
Name other uses or effects of static charge.
Dust extraction – charged dust is attracted to collection plates.
Photocopying – image formed by charge pattern attracts toner.
Static on vehicles – can cause sparks; grounding is needed.
Charged atmosphere – can affect electronics or increase lightning risk.
