1. What is the Electric Field Formula?

The electric field (E) is defined as the electric force (F) per unit charge (q). It represents the force that would be exerted on a positive test charge placed at a point in space.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electric field equation:

Where:

• \( E \) — Electric field (V/m or N/C)
• \( F \) — Electric force (N)
• \( q \) — Charge (C)

Explanation: The electric field at a point is the ratio of the force experienced by a test charge to the magnitude of the test charge.

3. Importance of Electric Field Calculation

Details: Electric field calculations are fundamental in electromagnetism, helping understand forces on charges, capacitor design, and electromagnetic wave propagation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter force in newtons (N) and charge in coulombs (C). Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of electric field?
A: The SI unit is volts per meter (V/m) or equivalently newtons per coulomb (N/C).

Q2: What is the direction of the electric field?
A: The electric field direction is the direction a positive test charge would move if placed in the field.

Q3: How does electric field relate to potential difference?
A: Electric field is the negative gradient of electric potential (E = -∇V).

Q4: What is a typical electric field strength?
A: Near Earth's surface it's about 100 V/m downward. In a thunderstorm it can reach 10,000 V/m.

Q5: Can the electric field be zero when force is zero?
A: Yes, if no force acts on a test charge, the electric field at that point is zero.