Dielectric Charges: Explaining Why They Don't Attract

In summary, a dielectric is a material that can be polarized by an external electric field, but it does not have a net positive or negative charge. This means that it can attract charges in some cases, such as when the charges are induced by the dielectric's polarization, but not in all cases. The polarization of a dielectric can also create its own electric field, which can interact with charges in the same way as any other electric field. However, there are instances where charges would not be attracted to a dielectric, such as in a non-uniform electric field.
  • #1
superslow991
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can someone in detail explain to me why can't a dielectric attract charges?
 
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  • #2
Typically a dielectric is a neutrally charged polarizable material. When you apply an electric field, such as in a capacitor, the electric field will polarize it, inducing a smaller electric field in the opposite direction.

But yeah, the quick answer is that it doesn't have a net positive or negative charge.
 
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  • #3
The induced polarisation in a dielectric can cause attraction. Dust particles are attracted to a charged rod even when they have no net charge.
So the OP is not strictly accurate except in a uniform field.
 
  • #4
sophiecentaur said:
The induced polarisation in a dielectric can cause attraction. Dust particles are attracted to a charged rod even when they have no net charge.
So the OP is not strictly accurate except in a uniform field.

This is also true. Any induced charge will create it's own electric field as I said, which can interact with charges the way any other electric field would.
 
  • #5
TJGilb said:
This is also true. Any induced charge will create it's own electric field as I said, which can interact with charges the way any other electric field would.
I know that they can attract but just wanted to know in an instance where charges wouldn't attract. Thanks for the replys
 
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FAQ: Dielectric Charges: Explaining Why They Don't Attract

What is a dielectric charge?

A dielectric charge is an insulating material that does not conduct electricity. It can become polarized when placed in an electric field, meaning the positive and negative charges within the material are separated.

Why don't dielectric charges attract?

Dielectric charges do not attract because they do not have freely moving charges, like conductive materials do. The separation of positive and negative charges within a dielectric material results in a net neutral charge, which does not create an attractive force between objects.

How do dielectric charges affect electric fields?

Dielectric charges can change the strength and direction of electric fields. When placed in an electric field, the polarized charges within the dielectric material can weaken or disrupt the field, depending on the orientation of the material.

Can dielectric charges be used to store electricity?

Yes, dielectric charges can be used to store electricity. Capacitors, which are devices used to store electrical energy, often use dielectric materials between their two plates. The polarized charges within the dielectric material allow for the storage of electrical energy.

Are all insulating materials considered dielectric charges?

No, not all insulating materials are considered dielectric charges. Dielectric materials have a specific property known as permittivity, which measures their ability to become polarized in an electric field. Materials with a high permittivity, such as glass or plastic, are considered dielectric charges, while materials with a low permittivity, like rubber, are not.

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