Does a charge go toward high or low potential

Thread starter mrhingle
Start date May 1, 2012
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Charge Potential

In summary, charges will only move toward higher potential if they are positive charges, as negative charges will move toward lower potential. The direction of charge movement is determined by the electric field, as charges will always move in the direction of the electric field lines. Potential difference is directly related to charge movement, as a higher potential difference results in a greater energy difference between two points, causing charges to move from high to low potential. A charge will never move in the opposite direction of the electric field, as this would require an external force to overcome the electric field. High potential refers to a point with a greater amount of electrical energy compared to another point, while low potential refers to a point with a lower amount of electrical energy. Charges naturally move from

May 1, 2012

mrhingle

if a 1 μq charge is placed between high and low charged equilateral plates, which way will it go?

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May 1, 2012

SammyS

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mrhingle said:

if a 1 μq charge is placed between high and low charged equilateral plates, which way will it go?

Initially, it will go in a direction which decreases its potential energy at the greatest rate.

1. Does a charge always move toward higher potential?

No, a charge will only move toward higher potential if it is a positive charge. Negative charges will move toward lower potential.

2. What determines the direction of charge movement?

The direction of charge movement is determined by the electric field. Charges will always move in the direction of the electric field lines.

3. How is potential difference related to charge movement?

Potential difference is directly related to charge movement. A higher potential difference means there is a greater energy difference between two points, causing charges to move from high to low potential.

4. Can a charge ever move in the opposite direction of the electric field?

No, a charge will always move in the direction of the electric field. If a charge were to move in the opposite direction, it would require an external force to overcome the electric field.

5. What is the difference between high and low potential?

High potential refers to a point where there is a greater amount of electrical energy compared to another point. Low potential means there is a lower amount of electrical energy. Charges naturally move from high potential to low potential to equalize the energy difference.