Charge

The quantity charge (Q) describes how a charged particle is influenced by electric and magnetic fields. The corresponding unit is coulomb (C).

History

The ancient Greeks noticed that amber attracted small objects when rubbed with fur. Along with lightning, this phenomenon is one of humanity's earliest recorded experiences with electricity. This name is therefore derived from the Greek word elektron (ἤλεκτρον), meaning "amber".

Related quantities

• capacitance
• current
• energy (electrical)
• potential
• resistance