A basic Theory Question (Electric Field Mapping)

In summary, an electric field is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the influence of electric charges on the space around them. It is measured by mapping the strength and direction of the force experienced by a charged particle at different points in space. The strength of an electric field is affected by the magnitude of the charge, distance from the charge, and the medium in which the charges are located. Electric field is different from electric potential, which is a scalar quantity that describes the potential energy of a charged particle. However, electric field mapping can be used to determine the charge distribution in a system by measuring the relative strengths and directions of the field at different points.
  • #1
smashbrohamme
97
1
If you reverse the polarities of the electrodes when you are "electric field mapping", wouldn't it show the same results on paper?
Just the path it takes is reversed, but you would never know the difference wether it's going away or towards correct?

I am diving into this "Electrical Field Mapping" and I am trying to dig into the theory more.

Any help would be appreciative.
 
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  • #2
hi smashbrohamme! :wink:
smashbrohamme said:
If you reverse the polarities of the electrodes when you are "electric field mapping", wouldn't it show the same results on paper?

yes :smile:
 

Related to A basic Theory Question (Electric Field Mapping)

What is an electric field?

An electric field is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the influence of electric charges on the space around them. It is a vector field that represents the force experienced by a charged particle placed in the field.

How is an electric field mapped?

Electric field mapping involves measuring the strength and direction of the electric field at different points in space. This is typically done by using a charged particle, such as a test charge, and measuring its displacement or the force acting on it at different locations.

What factors affect the strength of an electric field?

The strength of an electric field depends on the magnitude of the electric charge creating the field and the distance from the charge. The field strength also depends on the medium in which the charges are located, as different materials have different electrical properties.

What is the difference between an electric field and an electric potential?

An electric field is a vector quantity that describes the force a charged particle experiences, while electric potential is a scalar quantity that describes the potential energy of a charged particle. Electric potential is related to electric field by a mathematical formula, but they are two different concepts.

Can electric field mapping be used to determine the charge distribution in a system?

Yes, electric field mapping can be used to determine the charge distribution in a system. By measuring the electric field at different points, the relative strengths and directions of the field can be used to infer the distribution of charges creating the field.

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