Unit 7: Electrostatics

     Charged objects and the phenomena associated with electric fields will be the topics of this unit. You'll also see the connection to our previous study of gravitation in the similarity of equation structure for electrostatics. So, if you want to find out what makes your hair stand on end, this is the unit for you.

Suggested timeframe: 3 weeks

Big Ideas:
1. Like charges attract and opposite charges repel.
2. Electric fields exert force on charged particles.
3. Electric potential difference is the electric potential energy difference per unit charge.
4. There can be no electric field inside a conductor in equilibrium.
5. All excess charge must reside on the surface of a conductor in equilibrium.
6. Capacitors store energy in an electric field.
7. Capacitance is determined by geometrical measurements.