Does electric fields affect a compass

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the influence of electric fields on a compass needle. It concludes that a compass needle will not deflect in the presence of an electric field generated by static charges, as there is no magnetic field present to affect its orientation. The participants agree that while electric fields can induce surface charges on the needle, this effect is negligible compared to the magnetic forces involved. The consensus is that magnetic forces are significantly stronger than electrostatic forces, particularly at lower voltages.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and their properties
  • Knowledge of magnetic fields and compass functionality
  • Familiarity with electrostatics and charge interactions
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of electric fields on charged particles
  • Explore the principles of electromagnetism in detail
  • Study the differences between electric and magnetic forces
  • Investigate the behavior of materials in electric fields
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the interactions between electric fields and magnetic devices such as compasses.

ikonic
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By electitc field, i do not mean the magnetic field produced by a current carrying wire, but rather between charged particles. If a compass is placed between the electric field, will the compass needle delfect or will it just continue pointing in the initial direction?
 
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If there doesn't exist magnetic field, then the needle will not be affected, will it? So just static charges I think won't move the needle, for they provide electric field only.
 
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E field might induce surface charge on the needle. Don't know if you are meant to consider that possibility.
 
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TSny said:
E field might induce surface charge on the needle.
Right...I really forgot this situation. However if he emphasize the "electric field" not the "charge," I think the answer is still the same?
 
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As far as motor action, magnetic force is much stronger than electrostatic force unless you are dealing with high voltages.
 
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