Equipotential lines

Definition

Equipotential lines are lines or surfaces over which the electric potential is constant. They are perpendicular to electric field lines and help visualize the potential distribution in a field.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Equipotential lines never intersect each other.
2. The electric field is always perpendicular to equipotential lines.
3. No work is required to move a charge along an equipotential line.
4. In a uniform electric field, equipotential lines are equally spaced parallel lines.
5. Equipotential surfaces can be three-dimensional, such as concentric spheres around a point charge.

Review Questions

• Why do equipotential lines never intersect?
• How are equipotential lines oriented relative to electric field lines?
• What is the significance of no work being done when moving a charge along an equipotential line?

Related terms

Electric Field: A region of space around charged particles where forces are exerted on other charges. Represented by vectors showing direction and magnitude.

Electric Potential: The amount of electric potential energy per unit charge at a point in space. Measured in volts (V).

Potential Difference: The difference in electric potential between two points in an electric field. Also referred to as voltage.