Where are real electric dipoles ?

In summary, electric dipoles are pairs of point charges that can be found in real-life examples such as water molecules. Without these dipoles, water would exist in a gaseous state at room temperature.
  • #1
rogerharris
125
0
I'm trying to understand what electric dipoles, quadrupoles etc are.



If i look for definitions of electric dipoles, they are given as pairs of point charges, yet no real examples are given..

"A point charge is an idealized model of a particle which has an electric charge. A point charge is an electric charge at a mathematical point with no dimensions"

So i can understand this better, does anybody know of any real or natural examples where electric dipoles exist ?
 
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  • #2
A water molecule is an electric dipole. In fact, if it were not, water would be a gas at room temperature.
 
  • #3
Vanadium 50 said:
A water molecule is an electric dipole. In fact, if it were not, water would be a gas at room temperature.


Ok thanks for reminder. Thats a good start.
 

1. What is an electric dipole?

An electric dipole is a pair of equal and opposite electric charges separated by a distance. This separation of charges creates an electric dipole moment, which is a measure of the strength of the dipole.

2. Where can real electric dipoles be found?

Real electric dipoles can be found in many different materials, such as molecules, atoms, and even subatomic particles. They can also be artificially created in laboratories using electric fields.

3. How are electric dipoles important in physics?

Electric dipoles play a crucial role in many physical phenomena, including the interaction of molecules, the behavior of materials in electric fields, and the creation of electromagnetic radiation. They are also important in understanding the structure and function of biological systems.

4. Can electric dipoles be isolated?

In theory, it is possible to isolate an electric dipole by placing it in a vacuum. However, in most cases, electric dipoles are found in materials and are influenced by external electric fields.

5. How are electric dipoles different from magnetic dipoles?

Electric dipoles and magnetic dipoles are two different types of dipoles that behave differently. Electric dipoles involve the separation of electric charges, while magnetic dipoles involve the alignment of magnetic poles. Additionally, electric dipoles interact with electric fields, while magnetic dipoles interact with magnetic fields.

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