Difference Between Electric Field and Magnetic Field

Electric fields and magnetic fields are both fundamental to physics and everyday life. While they’re closely related as components of the electromagnetic field, each has its own unique origin, characteristics, and units of measurement. This page explains the difference between electric and magnetic fields, with simple comparisons and exam-ready FAQs.

What is an Electric Field?

An electric field is a region around a charged particle where electric forces can be felt by other charges. The electric field is produced by electric charges and can exert force on other charged particles in its vicinity.

• Unit: Newton per coulomb (N/C) or volt per metre (V/m)
• Measured by: Electrometer
• Depends on: Amount of electric charge

What is a Magnetic Field?

A magnetic field is the area around a magnet or a moving electric charge within which the force of magnetism acts. Magnetic fields can be created by moving electric charges or by magnets.

• Unit: Tesla (T) or Gauss (G)
• Measured by: Magnetometer
• Depends on: Speed of moving electric charge

Difference Between Electric Field and Magnetic Field

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the unit of electric field?
   The electric field is measured in newton per coulomb (N/C) or volt per metre (V/m).
2. What is the unit of magnetic field?
   The magnetic field is measured in tesla (T) or gauss (G).
3. Electric field is proportional to the _____?
   Charge (amount of electric charge).
4. Magnetic field is proportional to the _____?
   Speed of electric charge.
5. What is the unit of electric field?
   The electric field is measured in newton per coulomb (N/C) or volt per metre (V/m).
6. What is the unit of magnetic field?
   The magnetic field is measured in tesla (T) or gauss (G).
7. Electric field is proportional to the _____?
   Charge (amount of electric charge).
8. Magnetic field is proportional to the _____?
   Speed of electric charge.
9. How is an electric field produced?
   An electric field is produced by stationary or moving electric charges.
10. How is a magnetic field produced?
    A magnetic field is produced by moving electric charges (current) or by permanent magnets.
11. Can a stationary charge produce a magnetic field?
    No, a stationary charge only produces an electric field. Only moving charges produce magnetic fields.
12. How are electric and magnetic fields related?
    They are both components of the electromagnetic field. A changing electric field can produce a magnetic field and vice versa, as described by Maxwell’s equations.
13. Are electric field and magnetic field always perpendicular?
    In electromagnetic waves, the electric field and magnetic field are always perpendicular to each other and to the direction of propagation.
14. How are electric and magnetic fields detected?
    Electric fields are detected using electrometers, while magnetic fields are detected using magnetometers or compasses.
15. Give one real-life example of electric and magnetic fields working together.
    In electric motors and generators, moving electric charges (currents) produce magnetic fields, and changing magnetic fields can induce electric currents.
16. Can magnetic field exist without electric field?
    Yes, a magnet can create a magnetic field without an electric field, but moving electric charges always produce both.
17. Which field affects stationary charges?
    Only the electric field can exert force on stationary charges. Magnetic fields only affect moving charges.
18. What are the SI units for electric and magnetic field strength?
    Electric field: newton/coulomb (N/C) or volt/meter (V/m); Magnetic field: tesla (T).

Your success, our commitment.
Team Hodu Academy