Calculating Electric Potential Energy

Electric Potential Energy Equation:

\[ PE = k \times \frac{q1 \times q2}{r} \]

Electric Potential Energy (PE):

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1. What is Electric Potential Energy?

Electric potential energy is the energy stored in a system of charged particles due to their positions relative to each other. It represents the work done to assemble the charges from infinity to their current configuration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electric potential energy equation:

\[ PE = k \times \frac{q1 \times q2}{r} \]

Where:

\( PE \) — Electric potential energy (Joules)
\( k \) — Coulomb's constant (8.99 × 10⁹ N·m²/C²)
\( q1, q2 \) — Electric charges (Coulombs)
\( r \) — Distance between charges (meters)

Explanation: The equation calculates the potential energy between two point charges separated by distance r in a vacuum.

3. Importance of Electric Potential Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating electric potential energy is essential for understanding electrostatic interactions, designing electrical systems, and analyzing energy transformations in electromagnetic fields.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both charges in Coulombs and the distance in meters. Distance must be greater than zero. The calculator assumes point charges in a vacuum.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Coulomb's constant?
A: Coulomb's constant (k = 8.99 × 10⁹ N·m²/C²) is the proportionality constant in Coulomb's law that relates the electrostatic force between charges.

Q2: Can this calculator handle negative charges?
A: Yes, the calculator can handle negative charges. Negative potential energy indicates an attractive force between opposite charges.

Q3: What are typical charge values?
A: Elementary charge is approximately 1.6 × 10⁻¹⁹ C. Macroscopic charges are typically in microcoulombs (10⁻⁶ C) to millicoulombs (10⁻³ C) range.

Q4: Does this work for multiple charges?
A: This calculator is for two point charges. For multiple charges, the total potential energy is the sum of potential energies for all pairs.

Q5: How does medium affect the calculation?
A: In different media, Coulomb's constant is divided by the relative permittivity (εᵣ) of the medium. This calculator assumes vacuum (εᵣ = 1).