3.7.3.2
Electric field lines show direction and strength
Electric Fields & Potential — AQA A-Level Physics
- Field lines are always directed from positive chargeA property of matter that causes it to experience a force in an electromagnetic field. Measured in coulombs (C). to negative chargeA property of matter that causes it to experience a force in an electromagnetic field. Measured in coulombs (C)..
- The field is stronger where the lines are closer together.
- Field lines never cross. Crossing would mean two field directions at the same point.
- Around a point chargeA property of matter that causes it to experience a force in an electromagnetic field. Measured in coulombs (C)., the field is radial: lines spread outward from a positive charge, inward to a negative charge.
- Between two parallel plates, the field is uniform: lines are equally spaced and parallel.
- A neutral point between two like charges is where the resultant electric field is zero.
Examiner Tips and Tricks
- Always label arrows on field lines.
- Lines must touch the surface of the charge or plate and must never cross each other.