How does one define an electric field?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around defining an electric field, exploring various mathematical and conceptual approaches. Participants reference foundational theories, equations, and alternative contexts for understanding electric fields.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose defining an electric field through the Maxwell Equations, though the specifics of these equations are not detailed.
  • One participant suggests a mathematical definition using the equation E=kQ/r^2, explaining the variables involved.
  • Another participant offers an alternative definition, stating that the electric field is the force per unit charge experienced by a positive charge in a region of space influenced by other charges.
  • There is a discussion about the limitations of defining the electric field solely based on point charges, with one participant noting that configurations like parallel plates create different field characteristics.
  • Some participants highlight the similarity between electric and magnetic fields, particularly in the context of moving charges.
  • A participant asserts that the definition provided is formal, indicating a distinction between informal and formal understandings of the electric field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the best way to define an electric field, with no consensus reached on a singular definition. Multiple competing perspectives are presented, reflecting the complexity of the topic.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various assumptions about the context in which electric fields are defined, such as the influence of multiple charges versus single point charges, and the implications of different configurations like parallel plates.

ashutosha
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How does one define an electric field??

How does one define an electric field??
 
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ashutosha said:
How does one define an electric field??

Via the Maxwell Equations.

{ambiguous questions get ambiguous answers}

Zz.
 


ZapperZ said:
Via the Maxwell Equations.

{ambiguous questions get ambiguous answers}

Zz.

What are the maxwell equations??
 


I think the simplest way to define an electric field is mathematically. That equation is E=kQ/r^2

E is electric field in Newtons per coulomb
k is the coulombs constant which is 9E9 (the units are Nm^2/C^2)
Q is the present charge in C
r is the distance away from the charge in meters

That's the simplest way to define an electric field I think.

The other way to define an electric field is by using this equation

F/q=E

F is the force between 2 electric particles in Newtons
q is the charge measured in coulombs

hope this helps
 


The force per unit charge that a positive charge would experience if it were to be inserted into a region of space, where the force is caused by the existence of one or more other charges.

Hover said: E=kQ/r^2
But it wasn't part of the question to assume that the field is caused by one point charge. For example, between two charged parallel plates the electric field is close to being a set of parallel lines with constant magnitude.
 
Last edited:


An electric field is an area of space where something experiences a force due to its charge
 


nooma said:
An electric field is an area of space where something experiences a force due to its charge

True, but the same can be said about a magnetic field too in the case of moving charges.
 


This may be true, but that is the formal definition of an electric field
 

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