Electric fields- the force exerted on a given charge

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the differing equations for force in electric fields, specifically F=E/Q for a uniform electric field and F=EQ for the electric field between oppositely charged plates. It highlights that while the electric field in a parallel plate capacitor is uniform, the force experienced by a charge can vary based on the spatial distribution of the electric field. The relationship F=qE is noted as a general principle, applicable in the absence of magnetic fields. The conversation also references Coulomb's Law to emphasize the importance of understanding how electric fields vary in different scenarios. The nuances of electric field behavior and force calculations are crucial for accurate electrostatic analysis.
leah3000
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why is there a different equation for force in a uniformed electric field F=E/Q as opposed to the electric field between a pair of oppositely charged plates F=EQ ?

I thought it would be the same as the field between a pair of oppositely charged plates are also relatively uniformed, in the centre that is.

also how is the equation F=E/Q when E=F/Q ?:confused:
 
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F=qE, in the absence of a magnetic field, as given by the Lorentz force equation.
 
F = qE is a general relation. In a parallel plate capacitor E is relatively uniform due to the geometry of charge distribution, so F is uniform.

In a more general situation one must examine how the E field varies in space due to charge distribution in the local region, there E varies in space and F varies too. See Coulomb's Law or a reference on electrostatic fields.
 
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