Electric charge is conserved in most interactions from "summary" of Physics 11 by British Columbia. Schools Department. Curriculum Development Branch
When examining interactions involving electric charge, one fundamental principle stands out: the conservation of electric charge. This principle states that the total electric charge in an isolated system remains constant over time. In other words, electric charge cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transferred from one object to another. This concept of charge conservation plays a crucial role in understanding various phenomena in the realm of physics. For instance, when two objects come into contact and transfer charge between them, the total charge before and after the interaction must remain the same. This principle holds true for most interactions involving electric charge, whether it be through conduction, induction, or other processes. In situations where electric charge appears to be lost or gained, it is often the result of a redistribution of charge rather than an actual creation or destruction of charge. This redistribution can occur through a variety of mechanisms, such as the movement of electrons or ions between objects. Despite these apparent changes in charge, the total amount of charge in the system remains constant. It is important to note that while electric charge is conserved in most interactions, there are certain exceptions to this rule. In specific circumstances, such as in nuclear reactions or particle collisions, charge conservation may not hold true. In these cases, other conservation laws, such as conservation of energy or momentum, may take precedence. By understanding and applying the principle of charge conservation, physicists are able to analyze and predict the behavior of electrically charged systems with a high degree of accuracy. This fundamental concept serves as a cornerstone of modern physics, providing a framework for explaining a wide range of phenomena observed in the natural world.
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