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Point Charges

Definition

Point charges are electric charges that are concentrated at a single point in space. They have no physical size or shape, and their behavior is described by Coulomb's Law.

Analogy

Imagine point charges as tiny, invisible magnets that can either attract or repel each other. Just like magnets, point charges can exert forces on each other based on their charge and distance.

Related terms

Electric Field: The region around a charged object where an electric force is experienced by other charged objects.

Coulomb's Law: A mathematical equation that describes the electrostatic force between two point charges.

Electric Potential Energy: The energy associated with the position of a charged object in an electric field.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.