Question

The force, acting on per unit charge is called

• A. Electric current
• B. Electric potential
• C. Electric field
• D. Electric space

Hint:

Remember the key "per unit charge" definitions: \begin{itemize} \item \textbf{Force} per unit charge = \textbf{Electric Field} (\(E=F/q\)). \item \textbf{Potential Energy} per unit charge = \textbf{Electric Potential} (\(V=U/q\)). \end{itemize} This distinction is crucial for solving problems in electrostatics.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks for the definition of a fundamental quantity in electrostatics. We need to identify the physical quantity that is defined as the electrostatic force experienced by a charge divided by the magnitude of that charge.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the definitions of the given options:
- Electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge (\(I = dQ/dt\)). It is not force per unit charge.
- Electric potential at a point is the work done in moving a unit positive charge from a reference point (usually infinity) to that point (\(V = W/q\)). It is energy per unit charge, not force per unit charge.
- Electric field (or electric field intensity, \(\vec{E}\)) at a point is defined as the electrostatic force (\(\vec{F}\)) experienced by a small positive test charge (\(q_0\)) placed at that point, divided by the magnitude of the test charge.
\[ \vec{E} = \frac{\vec{F}}{q_0} \] This exactly matches the description "force, acting on per unit charge".
- Electric space is not a standard term in physics for a physical quantity.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The force per unit charge is the definition of the electric field. Therefore, option (C) is correct.