Electrostatic Potential

The effort required to move a unit positive charge (without acceleration) from infinity to any point in an electrostatic field is represented by the electrostatic potential (V) at that location. In this article, we will be studying electrostatic potential.

Understanding Electrostatic Potential with SAKAARPCMB

Table of Contents

• What Is Electrostatic Potential?

• SI unit of Electrostatic Potential

• Electric Potential Formula

• Electrostatic Potential of a Charge

• Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

What Is Electrostatic Potential?

Electrostatic potential, also known as electric field potential, electric potential, or potential drop, quantifies the amount of work required to move a unit positive charge from a reference point to a specific point within an electrostatic field without inducing acceleration.

SI Unit of Electrostatic Potential

The SI unit of electrostatic potential is the volt (V)

Other units include the statvolt

Symbols used to represent electrostatic potential include V or φ

Its dimensional formula is ML²T⁻³I⁻¹.

Electric Potential Formula

The electric potential energy of a system can be calculated using the following formula:

V=ke​rq1​⋅q2​​

where 1q1​ and 2q2​ are two charges separated by the distance r, and ke​ is Coulomb's constant.

Electrostatic Potential of A Charge

Consider a system of static charges, where charges are fixed and do not undergo motion. The potential energy of a charge within this system is defined in terms of the work done on the charge. When a charge q is placed in an electric field E, it experiences a force proportional to its magnitude,

q×E. Dividing the resultant work done by the magnitude of charge yields a value independent of the charge, representing the electrostatic potential of that charge.

W=q⋅(VB​−VA​)

where VA​ and VB​ are the electrostatic potentials at points A and B, respectively, and W represents the work done. Q is the magnitude of the charge.

Electrostatic potential in the electric field region, at any point, is the work done in bringing a unit charge from infinity to that point, ensuring the particle undergoes no acceleration.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Q1: What is electrostatic potential also known as?

A1: Electrostatic potential is also known as "potential drop," "electric field potential," and "electric potential."

Q2: What is the SI unit of electrostatic potential?

A2: The SI unit of electrostatic potential is the volt (V).

Q3: What is the dimensional formula of electrostatic potential?

A3: The dimensional formula of electrostatic potential is ML²T⁻³I⁻¹.

Q4: What symbols are used to represent electrostatic potential?

A4: The symbols V or φ are used to represent electrostatic potential.

Q5: What is the formula to calculate electric potential energy?

A5: The formula for electric potential energy is

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