Electric Charge- why is the electron the negative

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the convention of assigning a negative charge to the electron and the implications of this choice for understanding electricity and electronics. Participants explore the historical context and the impact of this convention on the perception of electric charge.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why the electron was not assigned a positive value, suggesting that it could simplify understanding of electronics.
  • Another participant notes that the convention was established prior to the discovery of the electron, implying that it was a matter of chance.
  • A third participant humorously attributes the convention to Benjamin Franklin.
  • Some participants express that the choice of sign for charge carriers is arbitrary and does not significantly affect the understanding of electricity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the significance of the charge sign convention, with some arguing it is arbitrary while others suggest it complicates understanding. No consensus is reached on the importance of this convention.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the historical context of charge conventions and the potential implications for educational and practical applications in electronics.

coffeebird
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Why wasn't the electron fixed with the 'positive' value? wouldn't that simplify a lot of issues with electronics problems, i mean, that way things wouldn't have to be all backwards. like, wherever the electrons go is becoming more negative, and whichever direction they are leaving is more positive...etc...
 
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Because the convention was established before the electron was discovered. There was a 50-50 chance of getting it right.
 
Blame Benjamin Franklin.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
Because the convention was established before the electron was discovered. There was a 50-50 chance of getting it right.


that's what i was thinking...and people do that a lot, just stick with a convention for its own sake ( like not switching to the metric system in the US)
 
I think it's important to realize that one choice of sign is no more "right" than another.
The sign of the majority charge carrier is an insignificant factor in understanding 'electricity'. Anyone who thinks it is of ant consequencr, can't be appreciating the topic in any depth.
 

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