How do we draw electric field lines for a negative charge in a vacuum?

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SUMMARY

Electric field lines for a negative charge in a vacuum are drawn inward, indicating that the negative charge attracts positive charges. This is a fundamental concept in electrostatics, where field lines represent the direction of the electric field. The discussion clarifies that while free body diagrams do not include forces exerted by the body itself, electric field lines illustrate the influence of the negative charge on surrounding space. Understanding this principle is essential for accurately depicting electric fields in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of electrostatics
  • Familiarity with electric field concepts
  • Knowledge of charge interactions (positive and negative)
  • Experience with drawing field lines and free body diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of electric field lines in electrostatics
  • Learn about the behavior of electric fields around different charge configurations
  • Explore the concept of electric field strength and direction
  • Investigate the applications of electric fields in real-world scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching electrostatics, and anyone interested in understanding electric field behavior around charges.

ehabmozart
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Suppose we have two charges in vacuum. They are positive and negative. If we want to draw the electric field lines around the negative charge. Do we draw the lines inward (negative) or outward (field lines produced by the +ve on -ve). I remember that free body diagram on a bidy does not include forces produced by the body itself but the forces applied on it.. What about in this situation? . Thanks to whoever responds!
 
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ehabmozart said:
Suppose we have two charges in vacuum. They are positive and negative. If we want to draw the electric field lines around the negative charge. Do we draw the lines inward (negative) or outward (field lines produced by the +ve on -ve). I remember that free body diagram on a bidy does not include forces produced by the body itself but the forces applied on it.. What about in this situation? . Thanks to whoever responds!

See :

http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/u8l4c.cfm
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/physics-drawing-electric-field-lines.html
 

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