Mastering Physics: Relationship between Electric Force and Electric Potential Conceptual Question

Mastering Physics: Relationship between Electric Force and Electric Potential Conceptual Question

Three points (A, B, and C) are located on equipotential lines as shown. (Figure 1)

Figure 1

Part A

Question: A proton is released from Point A. Indicate the direction of the electric force vector acting on the proton.

Answer: The electric force vector at Point A  points to the left.

Part B

Question: An electron is released from Point B. Indicate the direction of the electric force vector acting on the electron.

Answer: The electric force vector at Point B points to the right.

Part C

Question: An electron is released from Point B and a second electron is released from Point C. What can you say about the electric forces experienced by these electrons the instant they are released?

Answer: The electron released at Point C experiences a greater force.