In the Rutherford atomic model, the electric field intensity produced by the nucleus at a distance r from the nucleus is expressed in SI units. Which of the following is the correct SI unit for electric field intensity?
Answer
N/C
The correct answer is N/C — Therefore, the unit of electric field is newton per coulomb, written as N/C.
Step-by-step solution
- Recognise that electric field intensity is defined as force per unit charge.
- Force in SI units is newton (N) and charge is coulomb (C).
- Therefore, the unit of electric field is newton per coulomb, written as N/C.
Common mistake: Confusing N/C with V/m, because both are numerically equal in SI but represent different physical quantities.
Concept tested: SI unit of electric field in atomic context
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