How Does Potential Difference Affect Potential Energy in a Lightning Bolt?

In summary, the magnitude of a charge refers to the quantitative measure of the amount of electric charge on an object, determined by the number of excess or deficit electrons. Positive charges have a surplus of protons, while negative charges have an excess of electrons. The magnitude of a charge affects the strength of an electric field, and it can be changed by adding or removing electrons from an object.
  • #1
twigthemoogli
1
0

Homework Statement


The potential difference between a storm
cloud and the ground is 2.13 × 10
8
V.
If a bolt carrying 5 C falls from a cloud to
Earth, what is the magnitude of the change of
potential energy of the charge?
Answer in units of J


Homework Equations


2.13*108
C=5


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
hint: the unit "volts" in SI units is "Joules per Coulomb"
 

Related to How Does Potential Difference Affect Potential Energy in a Lightning Bolt?

1. What is the magnitude of a charge?

The magnitude of a charge refers to the quantitative measure of the amount of electric charge on an object. It is usually denoted by the symbol "Q" and is measured in coulombs (C).

2. How is the magnitude of a charge determined?

The magnitude of a charge is determined by the number of excess or deficit electrons on an object. The more electrons an object has, the greater the magnitude of its charge. This can be measured using an instrument called an electrometer.

3. What is the difference between positive and negative charges?

Positive charges have a surplus of protons, while negative charges have an excess of electrons. The magnitude of a positive charge is represented by a plus sign (+), while the magnitude of a negative charge is represented by a minus sign (-). Opposite charges attract each other, while like charges repel.

4. How does the magnitude of a charge affect electric fields?

The magnitude of a charge affects the strength of an electric field. The greater the magnitude of the charge, the stronger the electric field it produces. This is because a larger charge has a stronger influence on other charged objects in its surroundings.

5. Can the magnitude of a charge be changed?

Yes, the magnitude of a charge can be changed by adding or removing electrons from an object. This can be done through various methods such as rubbing two objects together or using a battery to transfer electrons. The magnitude of a charge can also be changed by bringing the object in contact with a different charged object, causing a transfer of electrons.

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