The electric field intensity at a distance r from a point charge q is
Correct answer: B. proportional to q and inversely proportional to r squared
- A. proportional to q and to r
- B. proportional to q and inversely proportional to r squared
- C. independent of r
- D. proportional to r squared
Explanation
Dividing the Coulomb force by the test charge leaves E equal to kq over r squared, so the field also obeys an inverse square law and points radially outwards for a positive charge. Field lines drawn from such a charge spread out into space, and their decreasing density with distance is a picture of the same falling intensity. For a uniform field, as between parallel plates, E is constant instead.
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About Electric Field Intensity
Electric field intensity is the force acting per unit positive test charge, with direction set by the force on that charge. Work includes fields of point charges, vector superposition, field lines and the relation between field and electric potential. Field intensity must be distinguished from electric force and potential.
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