Fundamental unit of charge (e)

Definition

The fundamental unit of charge (e) is the smallest unit of electric charge that is considered indivisible in chemistry and physics, quantified as approximately $1.602 \times 10^{-19}$ coulombs. It represents the charge of a single proton or the negative of the charge of a single electron.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The fundamental unit of charge (e) is approximately $1.602 \times 10^{-19}$ coulombs.
2. It is the basic building block for understanding electric charges in atoms and molecules.
3. Protons have a positive charge of +e, while electrons have a negative charge of -e.
4. The net charge of an atom is determined by the balance between protons and electrons.
5. In ionic compounds, ions carry charges that are multiples of e.

Review Questions

• What is the numerical value of the fundamental unit of charge?
• How does the fundamental unit of charge apply to protons and electrons?
• Why is the fundamental unit of charge important in determining the net charge of an atom?

Related terms

Proton: A subatomic particle found in the nucleus with a positive electric charge equal to +e.

Electron: A subatomic particle with a negative electric charge equal to -e, found outside the nucleus.

Ion: An atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons, resulting in a net electric charge.