Electric Fields and Electric Potential

We did a pretty interesting lab where we mapped an electric field in the bottom of a plastic tub. In one direction (horizontal) we measured electric field lines and in the other direction (vertical) we measured equipotential lines. Our readings had a very definite trend and that trend tells a great deal about the nature of an electric field, about the concept of voltage, and about the work and the electric charge.

The electric field lines went from the positive plate to the negative plate as in the figure below. So what is the trend of your voltage readings along your electric field lines?

Now the equipotential lines are also shown in the figure. They are vertical. Can you see a trend in those numbers?

Here's another talking point: what do we mean by voltage? Every reading we took was in volts. What does it mean? What are the units of a volt? Does a volt imply anything about work?

Think about this: if you take an electron and put it next to the negative plate will you have to do a lot of work to keep it there? And what about the same thing for a proton against the positive plate?

Respond to the blog posting, first of all, by responding to the "thought" questions posed above. Along the way make sure you define the following: electric field lines, equipotential lines, and voltage. Make your response at least two large paragraphs and sign only your first name to the blog. Also, remember to respond to one other posting from one of your classmates.