Formula For Calculating Electric Potential Energy

Electric Potential Energy Formula:

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

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 charges due to their positions relative to each other. It represents the work done to assemble the charges from infinity to their current positions.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electric potential energy formula:

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

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 formula calculates the potential energy between two point charges, which is directly proportional to the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the distance between them.

3. Importance Of Electric Potential Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating electric potential energy is essential for understanding electrostatic interactions, designing electrical systems, and analyzing energy storage in capacitors and other electrical components.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter both charges in Coulombs and the distance in meters. Ensure the distance is greater than zero to avoid division by zero errors.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Coulomb's constant?
A: Coulomb's constant (k) is approximately 8.99 × 10⁹ N·m²/C² and represents the proportionality factor in Coulomb's law.

Q2: Can this formula be used for multiple charges?
A: This formula calculates potential energy between two point charges. For multiple charges, you need to calculate the sum of potential energies for all pairs.

Q3: What does negative potential energy indicate?
A: Negative potential energy indicates an attractive force between opposite charges, while positive potential energy indicates repulsion between like charges.

Q4: How does distance affect electric potential energy?
A: Electric potential energy decreases as distance increases (inverse relationship). Doubling the distance halves the potential energy.

Q5: What are the units of electric potential energy?
A: Electric potential energy is measured in Joules (J), which is equivalent to Newton-meters (N·m).