Which creates an electric field -- charge or a charged particle?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether it is charge or charged particles that create an electric field. Participants explore the relationship between charge and particles, particularly in the context of physics and field theory.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that a charged particle, such as an electron, creates an electric field.
  • Others argue that it is the charged particle itself that is responsible for the electric field, rather than charge as an abstract concept.
  • One participant asserts that charge cannot be separated from charged particles, implying that charge inherently requires the presence of particles.
  • A later reply questions the existence of charge independent of particles, seeking examples of charge that is not associated with a particle.
  • Another participant introduces the idea that the concept of a field is a mathematical construct used to describe the behavior of particles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between charge and charged particles, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a consensus.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the definitions of charge and charged particles, nor does it clarify the implications of viewing fields as mathematical constructs.

franjo
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which creates an electric field charge or a charged particle (electron)
 
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A charged particle, not necessarily an electron.
 
You can not separate "charge" from "charged particles". You can not have charge without particles.
 
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franjo said:
which creates an electric field charge or a charged particle (electron)

Ignoring exotic many-body effects, where have you encountered a charge that isn't associated with a particle?

Zz.
 
The concept of a field is a mathematical construct to aid in describing particle behavior.
 

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