* Charge of each particle (q1 and q2): The force is directly proportional to the product of the charges. Larger charges result in a stronger force.
* Distance between the particles (r): The force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the particles. As the particles get closer, the force increases rapidly.
* The medium between the particles: The force is affected by the permittivity of the medium. A vacuum has a permittivity of ε₀, and other materials have different permittivities. The force is weaker in materials with higher permittivity.
Formula:
The electric force between two point charges is given by Coulomb's Law:
```
F = k * (q1 * q2) / r²
```
Where:
* F is the electric force
* k is Coulomb's constant (approximately 8.98755 × 10⁹ N⋅m²/C²)
* q1 and q2 are the magnitudes of the charges
* r is the distance between the charges
Key Points:
* Like charges repel, and opposite charges attract.
* The force is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
* The electric force is a fundamental force in nature, responsible for many phenomena, including the structure of atoms and molecules.
