Chapter 36, Problem 25A

What kind of field surrounds a stationary electric charge? A moving electric charge?

To determine

To find: The type of field that surrounds a stationary electric charge and a moving electric charge

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When a charged particle experiences the electric force in a particular region, the region is said to be the electric field. The object with the positive charge causes directing of the electric force in the same direction as that of electric field whereas the negatively charged object directs the electric force in the opposite direction of the electric field’s direction. The magnetic field is that field which is induced by the moving charged particles.

Force experienced by an electric charge in an electric field is given by: $F=Eq$

Force experienced by an electric charge in a magnetic field is given by: $F=qvB\sin \theta$

If a stationary charge is considered, then using the above expressions it can be concluded that a stationary charge can experience a force in an electric field but not in a magnetic field. This is because if the charge is stationary, then the velocity will be zero. Hence, electric field surrounds a stationary electric charge. In case of a moving charge, both electric field as well as magnetic field surrounds the electric charge.

Conclusion:

The electric field is produced surrounding the stationary charged particle, but the electric fields as well as magnetic fields are produced surrounding the moving charged particles.