Electrostatic repulsion

Definition

Electrostatic repulsion is the force that causes like electric charges to repel each other. This phenomenon occurs due to the interaction of their electric fields.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electrostatic repulsion follows Coulomb's Law, which states that the force between two charges is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them and directly proportional to the product of their magnitudes.
2. In conductors, free electrons move in response to electrostatic repulsion, leading to charge redistribution on the surface.
3. Insulators do not allow free movement of electrons, so electrostatic repulsion affects only localized areas within these materials.
4. Electrostatic repulsion plays a crucial role in determining the shape and behavior of electric fields around charged objects.
5. This force is responsible for preventing atoms from collapsing into one another, as positively charged nuclei repel each other.

Review Questions

• What law describes the relationship between electrostatic repulsion and distance between two charges?
• How does electrostatic repulsion differ in conductors versus insulators?
• What role does electrostatic repulsion play in maintaining atomic structure?

Related terms

Coulomb's Law: A principle stating that the force between two point charges is proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

Electric Field: A region around a charged particle where an electric force is exerted on other charges.

Conductors: Materials that allow free movement of electrons and can easily transfer electric charge.