The source of the electric field of a battery?

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The discussion centers on the creation of electric fields in a zinc-copper battery, emphasizing the role of oxidation and reduction at the electron level. It is clarified that the electric field arises from an excess of electrons on the zinc terminal and a deficiency on the copper terminal, which creates a potential difference. The conversation also highlights that the flow of electrons is influenced by thermodynamic favorability and chemical processes, with the battery's voltage determined by the ease of redox reactions. Additionally, the dynamics of electric fields within the battery are complex, involving both electrostatic and electromotive forces that interact within the system. Understanding these interactions is crucial for grasping the underlying principles of battery operation and electric field generation.
  • #31
rude man said:
You'd have a hell of a time trying to move an electron with gravity ...

Although the gravitational force is infinitesimal compared to electrical forces none the less an electron is easily moved by gravity as the gravitational force on any mass is independent of the mass meaning in a vacuum all masses are accelerated at 9.8 m/sec2. The force of gravity on an electron is equal to the force produced by a coulomb field of 5.6 x10-11 V/m, the field produced by another electron 5.1 m away. So the electric fields produced at the atomic level of about 1 nm are huge.
 

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