8. Electrostatics

Overview

Basic structure of the atom includes neutrons and positively charged protons in the nucleus surrounded by a cloud of negatively charged electrons.
Opposite charges attract. Like-charges repel.
An atom with a balance of negative and positive charges is net neutral. A non-neutral atom is an ion.

\[ \begin{array}{cc} F_{e} = k \frac{q_{1} q_{2}}{d^{2}} \quad \quad \quad \quad \\ \end{array} \]

Ion An atom with a net positive or net negative charge (not neutral).
A conductor is a material that allows for the flow of electric charge.
An insulator is a material in which electric charge does not flow freely.
Charge is a property of matter, which can be positive or negative. A charge experiences a force when in an electric field. A balance of positive and negative charges is neutral.
Ground is a source and sink for charge in an electric system. It can supply electrons or remove them when needed.
Electric Field