Chapter 21, Problem 50A

To determine

To discuss: The process of defining the direction of an electric field.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Electric field:

It is a three dimensional area around an electrically charged object. When other charge is brought in proximity of that area, the charge experience a force called electric force.

So, it is also defined as force per unit of charge.

It’s SI unit is N/C.

To determine the direction of electric field following steps are taken:

1. A test charge having positive magnitude is placed in the proximity of that field.
2. The direction of electric force gives the direction of electric field.

The direction of electric field would be away from the positive charge and towards the negative charge.