Is electric field a scalar or a vector quantity? Why?
(N/A) The electric field is a $vector$ quantity.
It is defined as the force experienced by a unit positive test charge placed at a point in the field.
Mathematically, $\vec{E} = \frac{\vec{F}}{q_0}$.
Since force $(\vec{F})$ is a vector quantity and the electric field has both a specific magnitude and a definite direction (the direction of the force on a positive test charge), it satisfies the requirements of a vector quantity.
It is defined as the force experienced by a unit positive test charge placed at a point in the field.
Mathematically, $\vec{E} = \frac{\vec{F}}{q_0}$.
Since force $(\vec{F})$ is a vector quantity and the electric field has both a specific magnitude and a definite direction (the direction of the force on a positive test charge), it satisfies the requirements of a vector quantity.
Explore More
Similar Questions
Four identical charges are placed at the four corners of a square. If the electric field intensity at the center of the square due to any one charge is $E$,then the resultant electric field intensity at the center of the square will be .......
Easy
View Solution$A$ uniform electric field of $500 \ Vm^{-1}$ is directed at $30^{\circ}$ with the positive $X$-axis as shown in the figure. The potential difference $(V_B - V_A)$ if $OA = 3 \ m$ and $OB = 5 \ m$ is
DifficultAP EAMCET 2021
View SolutionTwo point charges $Q$ and $-3Q$ are placed at a distance $x$ apart. If the electric field at the location of $Q$ is $E$,then the electric field at the location of $-3Q$ is:
Easy
View SolutionTwo point charges $-q$ and $+q/2$ are situated at the origin $(0, 0, 0)$ and at the point $(a, 0, 0)$ respectively. The point along the $X$-axis where the electric field vanishes is:
Medium
View SolutionWhy is an electric force conservative?
Medium
View SolutionVedclass Products
For Students
Vedclass Test Series
Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.
Start Free TrialFor Teachers
Exam Paper Generator
Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.
Try FreeFor Institutes
Online Exam Module
Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.
See Demo