Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1
ELECTROSTA TICS
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ELECTROSTA TICS
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Subject: Physics
Class: SHS 1
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 8
Grade code: 1.3.1.LI.1
Strand code: 3
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 1.3.1.CS.1
Indicator code: 1.3.1.LI.1
Theme: ELECTRIC FIELD, MAGNETIC FIELD AND ELECTRONICS
Subtheme: ELECTROSTA TICS
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This lesson introduces the fundamental principles of electrostatics, the study of stationary electric charges. We will explore the nature of electric charge, how objects become charged, and the unbreakable rule that governs all charge interactions: the Law of Conservation of Charge. This topic is not just an abstract concept; it explains everyday phenomena we experience in Ghana, from the small shock you get from a car door during the harmattan season to the powerful display of lightning during a thunderstorm. Understanding these principles is the first step towards mastering electricity and electronics.
2.1 What is Electric Charge? Definition: Electric charge is a fundamental property of matter that causes it to experience a force when placed in an electromagnetic field. All matter is made of atoms. Atoms contain three basic particles: Protons: Positively charged (+) and found in the nucleus. Electrons: Negatively charged (-) and orbit the nucleus. Neutrons: No charge (neutral) and found in the nucleus. The charge of a single proton is equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to the charge of a single electron. An object is electrically neutral when it has an equal number of protons and electrons. Their charges cancel each other out. An object becomes charged when there is an imbalance in the number of protons and electrons. Positively Charged: An object that has lost electrons (has more protons than electrons). Negatively Charged: An object that has gained electrons (has more electrons than protons).
Important Note: In solids, only the loosely bound outer electrons can move from one object to another. The protons are fixed inside the atomic nucleus and do not move. 2.2 The Behaviour of Charges: Fundamental Law of Electrostatics
The way charges interact is simple and predictable: Like charges repel: Two positive charges will push each other away. Two negative charges will also push each other away. Unlike charges attract: A positive charge and a negative charge will pull towards each other.
*A simple memory aid: "Opposites attract, likes repel."* 2.3 The Law of Conservation of Electric Charge