Work done by electric field

In summary, the conversation discusses a question regarding the relationship between potential energy and potential in a scenario where a negative charge is moving in an electric field. The question asks for the correct answer between two options, (C) and (D). The correct answer is (D) because the charge is moving from low to high potentials, indicating an increase in potential. The conversation also clarifies the difference between potential energy and potential, highlighting the importance of understanding this distinction in the context of the question.
  • #1
RoboNerd
410
11
1. Homework Statement
question 8.JPG


Hi everyone, I am having trouble solving this question. I know that the right answer is d.

Homework Equations


No equations here, only conceptual stuff.

The Attempt at a Solution



Say I have the following points: A and B

A. B.

The negative charge is moving to the right, and if the electric field does positive work on it, then the electric force is going to the right, which means that the electric field is pointed leftwards from point B to point A.

This means the negative charge is moving from low to high potentials.

I thus would think that the answer is (C), increases, but the right answer apparently is (D) increases.

Could anyone please help me figure out why this is the case?

Thanks in advance for the help, and make it a great day!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yes, the charge moves from lower to higher potential. But, how do you relate the change in potential energy to the change in potential?
 
  • #3
To be even more explicit than TSny, potential energy and potential are not the same thing. This problem is a test to see if you know the difference.
 

1. What is work done by electric field?

Work done by electric field refers to the amount of energy transferred to a charged particle by an electric field as it moves through a distance. It is a measure of the force exerted by the electric field on the particle and is expressed in joules (J).

2. How is work done by electric field calculated?

The work done by electric field is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the electric field by the distance the charged particle travels in the direction of the field. The formula for work done by electric field is W = Fd = qEd, where W is work, F is the force, d is the distance, q is the charge of the particle, and E is the magnitude of the electric field.

3. What is the relationship between work done by electric field and potential energy?

The work done by electric field is equal to the change in potential energy of the charged particle. This means that when work is done by the electric field, the potential energy of the particle increases, and when work is done on the particle, its potential energy decreases.

4. Can work done by electric field be negative?

Yes, work done by electric field can be negative. This occurs when the force and displacement are in opposite directions, meaning the electric field is doing work against the movement of the charged particle. This results in a decrease in the particle's potential energy.

5. What are some real-life examples of work done by electric field?

There are many real-life examples of work done by electric field, such as the operation of electric motors, charging of a battery, and movement of electrons in a circuit. Another example is lightning, where a strong electric field causes a transfer of energy to charged particles in the atmosphere, resulting in a discharge of electricity.

Similar threads

Direction of electric field vector on the surface of charged conductor
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
264
Confused about direction of electric field
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
Several questions relating to work, electric potential energy, and potential difference
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
1K
No Electric Charges if No Electric Field in Region
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
1K
Understanding the energy of a dipole in a uniform electric field
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Electric Field Inside Cylindrical Capacitor
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Electric field external to Conducting Hollow Sphere with charge inside
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
408
Finding the position where the electric field is zero
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
538
Electric Field of two charges
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
28
Views
585
Work Done on A Proton in an Electric Field
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top