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Module Overview

The electric potential and electric potential energy are studies in this module.  The module begins with an introduction of electric potential energy of a point charge, and then a discussion of the concept of electric potential as a property of the electric field. The concept is further examined through derivations of electric potentials of multiple point charges, sheet charge and non-conducting solid. 

Introduction
 
First-year college/university students are quite familiar with the notion of potential energy of an object due to gravity. It’s advantageous in this module to start the discussion on electric potential energy of a point charge, and then introduce the concept of electric potential. Pedagogically the challenge here is to bring an abstract concept to life, so that students can relate to. Some basic integration is required in the derivations and the main goal of this module is to gain clear understanding of the essence of electric potential.  
 
This module consists of a sequence of 6 videos with 2 step-by-step solved examples and 8 self-assessment questions. It is expected that the course instructor, will supplement the module with additional questions.
 
Prerequisites
 
Before starting this module, it will be helpful to be familiar with:
•    Dot product of two vectors,
•    Basic integration formula,
•    Concept of electric field,
•    Gravitational potential energy.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the meaning and significance of electric potential
  • Use electric potential energy to analyze the motion of charged particles
  • Calculate the electric potential that a collection of charges produces at a point in space
  • Calculate the electric potential of useful and important charge distributions

Explore Module

Please note that this preview is intended for exploration purposes only. If you'd like to use this interactive module in one of your courses,to ensure playback and tracking, you must upload the SCORM package (downloadable below) to your institution's Learning Management System (ex. Blackboard, D2L, Moodle, etc). 

PROJECT FILES
Type: Assessments
Title Author Description
Electric Potential and Potential Energy - MCQ (Quiz) | Download File (81.93 KB) Prof. Belinda Wang
Potential (Easy Example) | Download File (74.75 KB) Prof. Belinda Wang
Potential (Hard Example) | Download File (100.3 KB) Prof. Belinda Wang
Type: Glossary
Title Author Description
Glossary | Download File (142.59 KB) Prof. Belinda Wang

This glossary contains definitions for the modules: Electric Charges and Forces, Electric Fields, Electric Potential and Potential Energy, Capacitance and Capacitor, Magnetic Fields and Forces, and Electromagnetic Induction.
Type: Illustrations
Title Author Description
Electric Energy | Download File (55.26 KB) Prof. Belinda Wang
Equipotential Surface | Download File (229.19 KB) Prof. Belinda Wang
Type: Modules
Title Author Description
V1_2015_Electric Potential and Potential Energy (Storyline File) Prof. Belinda Wang

This Articulate Storyline File can be downloaded and modified to your specific learning objectives (within the bounds of the creative commons licensing selected for this file. This is encouraged, but any technical issues are not supported by the University of Toronto.
V1_2015_Electric Potential and Potential Energy (Storyline SCORM Package) Prof. Belinda Wang

This Articulate Storyline SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System.
V2_2021_Electric Potential and Potential Energy (Rise SCORM Package) Prof. Belinda Wang

This Articulate Rise SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System.
Type: Video Links
Title Author Description
3.0 Electric Potential and Potential Energy - Introduction | 3.0 Electric Potential and Potential Energy - Introduction Prof. Belinda Wang

You can also access 3.0 Electric Potential and Potential Energy - Introduction on MyMedia. 
3.1 Electric Potential | 3.1 Electric Potential Prof. Belinda Wang

You can also access 3.1 Electric Potential on MyMedia.
3.1.1 Electric Potential-Point Charges | 3.1.1 Electric Potential-Point Charges Prof. Belinda Wang

You can also access 3.1.1 Electric Potential-Point Charges on MyMedia.
3.1.2 Electric Potential-Sheet Charge | 3.1.2 Electric Potential-Sheet Charge Prof. Belinda Wang

You can also access 3.1.2 Electric Potential-Sheet Charge on MyMedia.
3.1.3 Electric Potential-Solid Ball | 3.1.3 Electric Potential-Solid Ball Prof. Belinda Wang

You can also access 3.1.3 Electric Potential-Solid Ball on MyMedia.
3.1.4 Electric Potential Examples | 3.1.4 Electric Potential Examples Prof. Belinda Wang

You can also access 3.1.4 Electric Potential Examples on MyMedia.
Back to Parent Project
Electromagnetics and Circuits

This project is a set of 12 learning modules that support the teaching of foundational level electromagnetics and circuits in engineering programs. These modules could be used for an inverted or hybrid delivery of a first year course, or courses. We envision these modules partially or fully replacing in-person lectures, and being paired with in-person laboratories and other hands-on experiential learning activities to create an effective, active learning experience.

Project Lead(s): Prof. Belinda Wang
Project Collaborator(s): Dr. David G. NairnDr. Ajoy Opal
Project Team Members: Sean McAlary
Details
Used in:
ECE110

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