Electric Flux Questions (about the definition)

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SUMMARY

Electric Flux is defined as the electric field passing per unit area perpendicular to electric field lines, represented by the formula Φ = ∫ E⋅dA. The discussion contrasts Electric Flux with pressure, which is defined as force per unit area (P = F/A). The key distinction lies in the nature of these quantities; Electric Flux is a product of the electric field and the area, while pressure is a quotient of force and area. This fundamental difference clarifies why Electric Flux is treated as a product rather than a quotient.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector quantities in physics
  • Familiarity with electric fields and their properties
  • Knowledge of calculus, specifically integration
  • Basic concepts of pressure and force in physics
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  • Study the mathematical derivation of Electric Flux using the integral form
  • Explore the relationship between Electric Flux and Gauss's Law
  • Investigate the applications of Electric Flux in electromagnetic theory
  • Learn about vector calculus and its role in physics
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AlphaLearner
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I can say that Electric Flux is Electric field passing per unit area perpendicular to electric field lines. But the formula came up as Φ = ∫ E⋅dA. Well, take the case of pressure! That is force acting per unit area perpendicular to direction of force. But it's formula came up as P = F/A.
Now my problem is, when both of those quantities are defined as some vector quantity acting per unit area perpendicular to direction of that vector, Why electric flux as product and pressure as quotient? The word "per" should bring 'Divided by' in mind but why product is taken for flux?
 
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AlphaLearner said:
I can say that Electric Flux is Electric field passing per unit area perpendicular to electric field lines.
It is not the field per unit area, it is the field times the area.
 
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Dale said:
It is not the field per unit area, it is the field times the area.
Thank you!
 

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