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What determines the strength of the electric force?

Ask by Beck Pena. in the United States
Jan 22,2025

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Answer

The strength of the electric force depends on the amount of charge and how far apart the charges are.

Solution

The strength of the electric force is determined by two main factors, according to Coulomb's Law: 1. **Magnitude of the Charges**: The electric force is directly proportional to the product of the magnitudes of the two charges involved. If the charges are larger, the force between them will be stronger. 2. **Distance Between the Charges**: The electric force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the centers of the two charges. As the distance increases, the force decreases significantly. Mathematically, this relationship is expressed by Coulomb's Law: \[ F = k \frac{|q_1 q_2|}{r^2} \] Where: - \( F \) is the magnitude of the electric force between the charges, - \( k \) is Coulomb's constant (\( 8.99 \times 10^9 \, \text{N m}^2/\text{C}^2 \)), - \( q_1 \) and \( q_2 \) are the magnitudes of the two charges, - \( r \) is the distance between the centers of the two charges. In summary, the strength of the electric force is influenced by the amount of charge and the distance separating the charges.

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Bonus Knowledge

The strength of the electric force between two charged objects is determined by two primary factors: the magnitude of the charges and the distance between them. According to Coulomb's Law, the electric force is directly proportional to the product of the charges (larger charges create stronger forces) and inversely proportional to the square of the distance separating them (the farther apart they are, the weaker the force). Picture it like a party: the more friends you bring (charges), the louder the music (force), but if you stand on opposite sides of the room (distance), you won’t hear it as clearly! In real-world scenarios, this principle plays out in everything from static electricity to how we walk on carpets. Ever experienced a small shock after shuffling across a rug? That’s the electric force at work! The quick build-up of charge, and then the discharge when you touch something conductive, showcases the fundamental concepts of electric forces right in the comfort of your living room. Who knew science could be so electrifying?

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