Why Does the Direction of an Electric Field Match the Force on a Proton?

[Soaring Crane]

Homework Statement

The direction of an electric field at a point is the same as


a.the force on a neutron placed at that point.

b.the force on a proton placed at that point.

c.the force on an electron placed at that point.

d.the force on a hydrogen molecule placed at that point.

Homework Equations

This is really a conceptual question.

The Attempt at a Solution

It would be choice B. because a positively charged particle's force is in the same direction of the electric field, right?

Thanks again.

 

[berkeman]

Correct. The force is in the direction that a + charge will be pushed.

 

[m2003]

Your attempt at a solution is correct. The force on a proton would be in the same direction as the electric field because protons have a positive charge and are therefore attracted to the negative end of the field. This is a fundamental concept in electromagnetism, known as the "right-hand rule." So, the correct answer would be B.