The Coulomb force is the fundamental electric force that acts between two charged particles. It explains how charged objects attract or repel each other depending on the type of charge they carry.
How It Works:
- Like charges (positive-positive or negative-negative) repel each other.
- Opposite charges (positive-negative) attract each other.
- The strength of this force increases when the charges are stronger or when they are closer together.
- As the distance between the charges increases, the force becomes weaker.
Key Characteristics:
- The force acts directly along the line connecting the two charges.
- It is a non-contact force, meaning the charges don’t have to touch to interact.
- It is part of the broader electromagnetic force, one of the four fundamental forces in nature.
Importance in Science and Technology:
- The Coulomb force holds atoms and molecules together, keeping electrons bound to atomic nuclei.
- It governs the behavior of electric and magnetic fields.
- It plays a central role in the design of electronic circuits, batteries, and capacitors.
- It helps explain many everyday phenomena, like static electricity or why your hair stands on end after rubbing a balloon on it.