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∆Ue

Definition

∆Ue refers to the change in electric potential energy of a charged object in an electric field. It represents the work done on or by the object as it moves within the field.

Analogy

Imagine a roller coaster ride where you start at a high point and end at a lower point. The change in height represents the change in electric potential energy. If you go down, your potential energy decreases; if you go up, your potential energy increases.

Related terms

Scalar quantity: A scalar quantity is a physical quantity that has magnitude but no direction. In the case of ∆Ue, it only tells us about the amount of change in electric potential energy without specifying its direction.

Electric potential: Electric potential is a scalar quantity that measures the amount of electric potential energy per unit charge at a given point in an electric field.

Electric field: An electric field is a region around charged particles or objects where other charged particles experience forces. It determines how charges interact with each other and affects their electric potentials and energies.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.