This applet displays 3-D perspective views of the electric field produced by a number of charge arrangements. Starting the applet opens a second window that contains full instructions on how to use the applet, source code, a German version, and links to other simulations. There are options for displaying fields as vectors or field lines; as well as equipotentials. Particle views of the fields are also available.
Type of Material:
Simulation
Recommended Uses:
In-class demonstration or part of a self-paced activity.
Technical Requirements:
Web browser with Javascript enabled.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
To visualize the structure and effect of the electric field produced by various charge distributions.
Target Student Population:
Lower division calculus-based physics students, upper divison and graduate E & M classes.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Students should have knowledge of basic electrostatic laws and definitions, such as Coulomb's law, electric field, potential, and dielectrics.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The simulation covers a wide range of situations, from very basic to advanced concepts, including dielectrics and conductors. Multiple views are available, including equipotential lines, field lines, and field vectors. An option to display the response of particles to the force generated by the field is also available. The graphical displays in this applet are quite impressive and comprehensive. The charge distributions are pre-defined for selection by the user but there are a large number of them.
Concerns:
The velocity view with particles may confuse students because it doesn't represent physical motion of charges. This is noted in the directions for the applet.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The graphics in this simulation do an excellent job displaying the field structure. The ability to adjust the viewing angle is of great value in this respect. There are a large number of views available, including 3-dimensional as well as X, Y, or Z slices. The distribution type, number of particles, field strength, and charge separation can all be varied. Available displays include field lines, field vectors, and equipotential surfaces. Each simulation can stopped, reversed, or reset as well.
Concerns:
There is a rather large amount of information to comprehend and variables that can be changed. The student may need some guidance on the best way to approach this applet so they do not experience cognitive overload. Also, the velocity option for the particle view may cause confusion.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
Controls are largely intuitive, in most cases their function is fairly obvious. Detailed instructions and descriptions of the functions are also available. Users can adjust the viewing angle and zoom in or out with just a click of the mouse.
Concerns:
It is sometimes difficult to precisely re-orient the images by rotating, although re-selecting the charge distribution will re-start the applet view.
When first opened, the applet is in front of the page with instructions.
Creative Commons:
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