An _electric field_ is a region in space where electric charges experience a force. The strength and direction of the field at any point are defined by the force a positive test charge would experience there. The field lines due to a positive and a negative charge, respectively, are shown here: ![[electric_field.excalidraw.light.svg]] Electric fields are a fundamental part of [[Electromagnetism|electromagnetism]] and are closely connected to [[Magnetic Field|magnetic fields]]. According to Maxwell’s equations, a time-varying magnetic field can produce an electric field, just as a static or moving electric charge generates one. This dynamic interaction is central to the behavior of electromagnetic waves. In [[Quantum Mechanics|quantum physics]], electric fields shape the structure and interactions of [[Atom|atoms]], molecules, and solids. For example, the [[Stark Effect|Stark effect]] describes how external electric fields shift the [[Energy Level|energy levels]] of atoms. In condensed matter systems, electric fields can influence [[Electron|electron]] motion, giving rise to effects like electric [[Polarization|polarization]]. Electric fields also play a key role in [[Quantum Computer|quantum technologies]] and [[Quantum Metrology|precision measurement]]. [[Platform - Ions|Trapped ion]] [[Qubit|qubits]] are confined and manipulated using electric potentials. Similarly, in solid-state systems, gate voltages (essentially controlled electric fields) are used to tune qubit behavior and interactions. Highly sensitive devices like quantum electrometers are capable of detecting minute variations in electric fields, which plays an important role in both fundamental research and for practical applications. >[!read]- Further Reading >[!ref]- References