We define the electric field strength as: vector E = limitq0 → 0 vector F/q0 Keeping in mind that the minimum

Question

We define the electric field strength as: \(\vec E = limit_{q_0}\rightarrow0\frac{\vec F}{q_0}\) Keeping in mind that the minimum value of the charge that exist in nature cannot be less than e = 1.0 x 10^-19 C, how can we justify the above definition?

Answer 1

The minimum value of charge that exists in nature, that is 1.0 x 10^-19 C is very very small as compared to the actual charges we deal with. Therefore, in general, the condition q₀ → 0 is satisfied. However in microscopic cases, for example, while dealing with charges within the atom or nucleus, the definition may not be strictly applicable.