What is an Electric Field?
Definition
An electric field is a vector field that associates to each point in space the electrostatic force per unit of charge exerted on an infinitesimal positive test charge at rest at that point. In simpler terms, it is a region around a charged particle where an electric force is exerted on other charged particles.
Formula
The magnitude of the electric field (E) created by a single point charge (q) at a distance (r) is given by the formula:
$$E=k \frac{|q|}{r^2}$$
Where:
- Eis the magnitude of the electric field.
- kis Coulomb's constant, approximately 8.988 × 10⁹ N·m²/C².
- qis the magnitude of the point charge.
- ris the distance from the point charge.
Units
The primary SI unit for the electric field is Newtons per Coulomb (N/C). It can also be expressed in Volts per meter (V/m), where 1 N/C is equivalent to 1 V/m.
How to Calculate the Electric Field
This calculator can solve for any of the three variables in the electric field equation. Here is a step-by-step guide for a standard calculation:
- Identify the charge (q):Determine the magnitude of the point charge creating the field.
- Determine the distance (r):Measure the distance from the point charge to the point in space where you want to find the electric field's strength.
- Use the Formula:With Coulomb's constant (k) and your values for q and r, the electric field (E) can be calculated. Our tool does this for you instantly.
How to use this online calculator
Follow these steps for an easy calculation:
- Enter values for any two of the three fields: Charge (q), Distance (r), or Electric Field (E).
- Select the desired units for each value from the dropdown menus.
- The calculator will instantly compute the third value and highlight the result in green.
- A detailed, step-by-step solution will appear below the calculator.
- To start a new calculation, click the "Clear" button.
