Electrostatics

Question 1

Describe conductors

Answer 1

Loosely bound outer electrons in their atoms - Free to move throughout the metal in a “sea of electrons”.
When a potential difference (Voltage) is placed across the metal, electrons can flow away from the negative potential to the positive potential

Question 2

Describe insulators

Answer 2

Outer shell electrons are bound tight to their atoms - not free to move within the material.
No current will flow when a potential difference is placed across an insulator

Question 3

Define electric fields

Answer 3

Region in which an electric charge experiences a force
Direction of an electric field at a point is the direction of the force on a positive charge at the point