A resting electron can be set into motion by an electric field due to its charge, which exerts a force according to the equation F = qE, where F is the force, q is the charge, and E is the electric field strength. In contrast, a magnetic field cannot initiate motion in a resting electron, as it requires relative motion to exert a force, described by F = q(v x B), where v is velocity and B is the magnetic field. Gravitational fields can influence the electron due to its mass, but the force is negligible compared to electric forces, calculated using F = mg, where m is mass and g is the gravitational acceleration. The discussion emphasizes the differences in how these fields interact with charged particles at rest. Understanding these principles is crucial for applications in physics and engineering.