Question

(I) Determine the magnitude and direction of the electric force on an electron in a uniform electric field of strength 2460 N/C that points due east.

Answer 1

The electric field, at any point in space is defined as the ratio of force exerted on a tiny positive test charge q which is located at that point and the magnitude of the test charge.

For a positive charge, the direction of electric force and electric field will be same and for a negative charge, the direction of electric force and electric field will be opposite.

Calculate the magnitude of the electric force exerted on the electron.

Rearrange this equation for.

Substitute 2460 N/C for and for q.

Therefore, the magnitude of electric force exerted on an electron is and the force is directed towards west.