Electric Field Lines: Can Charges Move on Conductors?

In summary, the electric field lines are perpendicular to the surface of a conductor, indicating that charges are at rest on the surface and no work is being done. However, if an electric field is created at a different angle to the surface, the charges will automatically move on the surface. It is possible to change the density of the charges on the conductor, but it is unclear what will happen if the negative charges are moved to one end. This may generate a different electric field or have other effects on the conductor.
  • #1
nishant mudgal
2
0
sir, we know that the electric field lines are perpendicular to the surface of the conductor ,it means charges are rest on the surface of the conductor ,there is no work done.
if we create an electric field such that the electric field lines are at a different angle to the surface of the conductor then charges are automatically move on the surface.
i want to know that it id possible or not? sir, please give me a sufficient answer about this topic.
thank you.
 
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  • #2
Sure, turn the conductor =D
 

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  • #3
If that's not what you mean, then perhaps you mean the field generated by the charges on the conductor. What happens if you change the density? So I move, say, the negative charges to one end? What is across the conductor if that's the case? What does that generate?
 

Related to Electric Field Lines: Can Charges Move on Conductors?

1. What is an electric field line?

An electric field line is an imaginary line that represents the direction and strength of an electric field. It is drawn tangent to the field at any given point and points in the direction that a positive test charge would move if placed at that point.

2. How are electric field lines related to charges?

Electric field lines are related to charges because they represent the presence and movement of electric charges. The lines originate from positive charges and terminate on negative charges, showing the direction of the electric field created by the charges.

3. Can electric field lines cross each other?

No, electric field lines cannot cross each other. This is because at the point where two field lines would cross, there would be two different directions for the electric field, which is not possible. Therefore, field lines must always be drawn without crossing.

4. Can charges move on conductors?

Yes, charges can move on conductors. Conductors are materials that allow charges to flow freely through them, such as metals. This is why electricity can travel through wires made of conductive materials.

5. How do electric field lines behave on conductors?

On conductors, electric field lines behave differently than they do in free space. They are always perpendicular to the surface of the conductor and the strength of the electric field is greatest where the lines are closest together. This is why charges tend to gather on the sharp edges of conductors.

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