Electric Field

About this simulation

This 3D simulation shows the electric field of two point charges as a grid of arrows coloured by strength, with small bright dots drifting along the field like a positive test charge. Sliders set each charge between minus 5 and plus 5 microcoulombs and the distance between them. Readouts give the Coulomb force, whether the pair attract or repel, the separation and the field at the midpoint. Teachers can use it to introduce field direction, compare like and unlike charges and test the inverse square law with the class.

What students can explore

Set Charge 1 to +3 and Charge 2 to -3, then describe where the field arrows point between them.
Make both charges positive and read the Interaction readout to see that like charges repel.
Double the Separation and note how the Coulomb force readout changes.
Set one charge to zero and watch the field become that of a single point charge.
Switch off Charge 2 orbits to freeze the picture, then compare the field at the midpoint for different charge pairs.

Learning objectives

1Describe the direction of an electric field around positive and negative charges.
2Predict whether two charges attract or repel from their signs.
3Explain how the Coulomb force changes with charge size and separation.
4Relate arrow length and colour to the strength of the field.

Questions teachers ask

Is it free?

Yes. The simulation is free, runs in any modern browser including interactive whiteboards and tablets, and needs no sign-up or download.

What does the electric field direction mean?

By convention the field points the way a small positive test charge would be pushed. It points away from positive charges and toward negative charges, which is why the drifting dots flow out of one and into the other.

How does the force depend on distance?

The Coulomb force follows an inverse square law, F = k q1 q2 / r squared. Doubling the separation makes the force four times smaller, which you can check with the Separation slider and the force readout.

How do I use it in class?

Drag the sliders for Charge 1, Charge 2 and Separation, and read the values in the panel. Orbit the camera to look from different angles. Ask students to predict the result before each change.

Embed this simulation

Drop it into your LMS, blog, or class site — free.

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From model to evidence

Use a worksheet to capture predictions, observations, and explanations after students explore.