Differentiate between a negative and a positive pole.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is In the context of electricity and magnetism, the terms "negative pole" and "positive pole" refer to the two ends of a battery, magnet, or other objects that have an electric or magnetic field. Here's a differentiation between the two:

**Negative Pole:**
1. **Electric Charge:** In electrical terms, the negative pole is associated with an excess of electrons. When connected in a circuit, electrons will flow away from the negative pole towards the positive pole.
2. **Voltage Potential:** The negative pole is at a lower electric potential compared to the positive pole in a battery or power source.
3. **Magnetism:** In a magnet, the negative pole, often called the south-seeking pole, is the side that is attracted to the Earth's geographic North Pole, which is magnetically a south pole.
4. **Polarity in Chemical Cells:** In a galvanic cell, the negative pole is the anode during discharge. It is where oxidation occurs, and electrons are released into the external circuit.
5. **Conventional Current:** In terms of conventional current flow (which is opposite to electron flow), the current is considered to flow out of the positive pole and into the negative pole.

**Positive Pole:**
1. **Electric Charge:** The positive pole typically has a deficiency of electrons. In a circuit, it is the destination towards which electrons flow.
2. **Voltage Potential:** The positive pole has a higher electric potential and is the source of the electric field in a battery or power source.
3. **Magnetism:** The positive pole of a magnet, often called the north-seeking pole, is attracted to the Earth's geographic South Pole, which is magnetically a north pole.
4. **Polarity in Chemical Cells:** In a galvanic cell, the positive pole is the cathode during discharge. It is where reduction occurs, and electrons from the external circuit enter the cell.
5. **Conventional Current:** As mentioned, conventional current is considered to flow from the positive pole to the negative pole, which is the opposite direction of electron flow.

In summary, the negative pole is characterized by an excess of electrons and a lower electric potential, while the positive pole is characterized by a deficiency of electrons and a higher electric potential. These differences are fundamental to the operation of electrical circuits, electronic devices, and magnetic systems.

Differentiate Between a Negative and a Positive Pole