Preview - Charge Interactions Chem/Phys

Quantitative Electric Field Relationships

Now, let's figure out a mathematical model that describes an electric field made by one point charge.

Uncheck the box labeled, “Electric Field.” Check the box that says “Grid.” Again, place a +1nC near the top center of the simulation at the intersection of 2 major gridlines.

Questions

Please answer the questions below.

Place a sensor 10 (small) gridmarks to the right of the point charge. Now, place a second sensor 20 gridmarks below the point charge. Compare the length of the two vectors.

What can you conclude about the relationship between electric field strength and distance? Predict and record a mathematical model that describes the relationship between electric field strength and distance (it's okay if it's not correct yet!).

If you place a sensor 30 gridmarks to the left of the point charge, how will it compare in size to the first vector? Test your prediction and explain your results. Do you still agree with the mathematical model you predicted above? If not, correct it in the previous answer box.

Place another +1nC charge on top of your original +1nC charge so that you have a +2nC charge in the center of the screen.

What happens to the strength of the electric field at the location of each sensor that you had previously placed? What can you conclude about the relationship between electric field strength and the magnitude (strength) of the point charge?

Predict what will happen to the length of the electric field vectors if you place a third +1nC charge at the center. Was your prediction correct? Explain. Write a mathematical model describing the relationship between electric field and charge.

Notes

These notes will appear on every page in this lesson so feel free to put anything here you'd like to keep track of.