Polarization
Definition
Polarization refers to aligning or separating positive and negative charges within an object or material due to external influences such as an electric field.
Analogy
Picture a group of people standing close together facing different directions. When someone shouts 'left,' everyone turns left; when someone shouts 'right,' everyone turns right. Similarly, in polarization, the charges within a material align or separate based on the direction of an external electric field.
Related terms
Electric Dipole: A pair of equal and opposite charges separated by a small distance, resulting in a dipole moment.
Dielectric Polarization: The alignment of polar molecules within a dielectric material when subjected to an external electric field.
Induced Charge: Charges that are redistributed within an object due to the presence of nearby charged objects.
"Polarization" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Additional resources (1)
Resources
© 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.