Electric potential is the work done per unit charge in bringing a positive test charge from infinity to a point in an electric field. It provides a scalar quantity that represents the potential energy landscape due to electric forces, simplifying the analysis of electric fields and forces.

Electric Potential

Electric potential

work done per unit charge

positive test charge

point in an electric field

A scalar quantity is a physical measurement that is described by a single value, representing magnitude only, without any directional component. Scalars are fundamental in physics as they simplify calculations and are often contrasted with vectors, which include both magnitude and direction.

scalar quantity

potential energy landscape

electric forces

analysis of electric fields

forces

The Nature of Electric Charge and Current

Relevant Degrees

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