Does electric fields affect a compass

[ikonic]

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?

 

[tommyxu3]

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.

 

[TSny]

E field might induce surface charge on the needle. Don't know if you are meant to consider that possibility.

 

[tommyxu3]

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?

 

[David Lewis]

As far as motor action, magnetic force is much stronger than electrostatic force unless you are dealing with high voltages.