1. What is Electric Potential Energy?

Electric potential energy is the energy a charged particle possesses due to its position in an electric field. It represents the work done to move a charge against an electric field.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electric potential energy equation:

Where:

• \( PE_{electric} \) — Electric potential energy (Joules)
• \( q \) — Charge (Coulombs)
• \( V \) — Voltage (Volts)

Explanation: The energy stored when a charge is moved through an electric potential difference.

3. Importance of Electric Potential Energy

Details: Understanding electric potential energy is crucial for analyzing circuits, capacitors, and many electrical systems. It's fundamental in electronics and electromagnetism.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter charge in Coulombs and voltage in Volts. The calculator will compute the electric potential energy in Joules.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between electric potential and electric potential energy?
A: Electric potential is energy per unit charge (V), while electric potential energy is the total energy (J) of a charge in a potential.

Q2: Can electric potential energy be negative?
A: Yes, if either the charge or voltage is negative, the potential energy will be negative.

Q3: How is this related to capacitors?
A: The energy stored in a capacitor is calculated using a similar principle (U = ½CV²).

Q4: What are typical values for charge and voltage?
A: Charge is often in microcoulombs (μC) or nanocoulombs (nC), while voltage ranges from mV to kV depending on application.

Q5: How does this relate to work in an electric field?
A: The change in electric potential energy equals the work done by or against the electric field.