Electric Field
A vector field surrounding an electric charge that exerts an electrostatic force on any other charge placed within the field.
Governing formula
E = F / q = -∇V = (1 / (4π ε₀)) q / r² r̂
SI unit
N/C (or V/m)
In depth
Electric field vectors point radially outward from positive source charges and inward toward negative source charges. Mathematically, the electric field vector equals the negative spatial gradient of the scalar electric potential V.
Examples in the real world
The intense electric field between storm clouds and the ground exceeding ~3 × 10⁶ V/m to initiate dielectric breakdown and lightning strikes.