1. What is Electric Potential Energy?

Electric potential energy is the energy that a charged particle possesses due to its position in an electric field. It represents the work done to bring a charge from infinity to a specific point in the electric field.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the electric potential energy formula:

Where:

• \( PE \) — Electric potential energy (joules)
• \( q \) — Electric charge (coulombs)
• \( V \) — Electric potential (volts)

Explanation: The formula calculates the energy stored in a charge due to its position in an electric potential field.

3. Importance of Electric Potential Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating electric potential energy is essential for understanding electrical systems, capacitor energy storage, and analyzing the behavior of charged particles in electric fields.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter charge in coulombs and electric potential in volts. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the unit of electric potential energy?
A: Electric potential energy is measured in joules (J) in the SI system.

Q2: How is electric potential different from electric potential energy?
A: Electric potential (V) is the potential energy per unit charge, while electric potential energy (PE) is the total energy a charge possesses at a point.

Q3: Can electric potential energy be negative?
A: Yes, electric potential energy can be negative when the charge is negative or when it's in a region of negative electric potential.

Q4: What factors affect electric potential energy?
A: Electric potential energy depends on the amount of charge, the electric potential at the point, and the sign of the charge.

Q5: How is this related to capacitors?
A: The energy stored in a capacitor is calculated using a similar principle: \( U = \frac{1}{2}CV^2 \), where C is capacitance and V is voltage.