Charges and Fields: free physics simulation
Arrange point charges and see the electric field, potential map and field lines.
▶ Open the simulationFree, no sign-up. Works on phones, tablets and laptops.
The science
Electric charges create an electric field around them. Like charges repel and opposite charges attract with a force that follows Coulomb’s law. Field lines show the direction a positive charge would be pushed, and equipotential lines join points at the same voltage.
F = k q₁ q₂ / r²
Things to try
- Place a positive and a negative charge to make a dipole.
- Line up several charges to make a uniform field.
- Turn on the voltage map and trace an equipotential line.
Topics covered
electric field potential coulomb equipotential voltage
How to use it
Open the simulation, then change the experiment live with the sliders, checkboxes and buttons in the side panel. Drag objects on screen where it makes sense, and use Pause, Step, Speed and Reset in the bottom bar to study every moment.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Charges and Fields simulation show?
Electric charges create an electric field around them. Like charges repel and opposite charges attract with a force that follows Coulomb’s law. Field lines show the direction a positive charge would be pushed, and equipotential lines join points at the same voltage.
What is the key equation?
F = k q₁ q₂ / r²
Is the Charges and Fields simulation free?
Yes. It runs free in any web browser on phones, tablets and laptops, with no sign-up or download.
More physics simulations
Projectile Motion
Fire a cannon. Explore angle, speed, gravity and air resistance.
Pendulum Lab
Swing pendulums, measure the period, and watch kinetic and potential energy trade places.
Masses and Springs
Hang masses from springs. Hooke's law, oscillation period and energy.
Wave Interference
Ripple tank with two sources or a double slit: constructive and destructive interference.