This lab activity focuses on understanding and mapping the electric field created by a point charge. The electric field is a vector field that describes the force exerted on a positive test charge at any point in space due to the presence of the point charge. By measuring the electric potential at various points, we can create equipotential lines and, subsequently, map the electric field lines. These lines always point in the direction of the force that a positive test charge would experience. The strength of the field is indicated by the density of the field lines.
Mapping the electric field involves experimentally determining equipotential lines. These are lines along which the electric potential is constant. Electric field lines are always perpendicular to equipotential lines. By drawing these perpendicular lines, we visualize the electric field's direction and strength around the point charge.
Match the term with its correct definition:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Electric Field | a. A line along which the electric potential is constant. |
| 2. Equipotential Line | b. The force per unit charge experienced by a positive test charge. |
| 3. Point Charge | c. A charge concentrated at a single point in space. |
| 4. Electric Potential | d. The electric potential energy per unit charge at a specific location. |
| 5. Electric Field Lines | e. Lines that represent the direction and strength of the electric field. |
(Match: 1-b, 2-a, 3-c, 4-d, 5-e)
The electric field due to a point charge is a ______ field. The strength of the electric field is ______ proportional to the square of the distance from the charge. Electric field lines point ______ from a positive charge and ______ a negative charge. Lines of equal electric potential are called ______ lines, which are always ______ to electric field lines.
(Answers: vector, inversely, away, toward, equipotential, perpendicular)
Imagine you have mapped the electric field around a positive point charge. How would the map change if the charge were negative, but with the same magnitude? Explain your reasoning.
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