charge
CHARJ
/tʃɑːdʒ/
A fundamental property of subatomic particles that causes them to experience electric force (positive or negative).
Describes either the fundamental physical property or the process of accumulating electric energy.
The story behind the word. From Old French 'chargier', from Vulgar Latin 'carricare', meaning to load a wagon. In physics, an object is 'loaded' with excess electrons.
Word relationships
- electrification: Electrification is the process of supplying electricity, while charge is the fundamental quantity of power or property stored.
- neutrality: The state of having equal positive and negative charges, resulting in zero net electrical force.
Commonly confused with
- current: Charge is the physical quantity of static or moving electrical units; current is the rate at which charge flows.
Word family
- charger (noun): A device used to restore electrical energy to batteries.
Collocations
- electric charge
- positive charge
- charge carrier
- conservation of charge
Idioms & expressions
- in charge
- take charge
Example sentences
- "Electrons carry a negative charge, whereas protons carry an equal positive charge." Elementary physics textbook
- "Plugging the phone into the wall outlet transfers charge back into its internal lithium battery." Battery maintenance notice
Memory hook
LOAD electrons into a battery like loading a CHARIOT. Fundamental property causing electromagnetic attraction and repulsion.
When not to use
Avoid confusing electrical charge with legal indictments or monetary fees in non-technical context.
Fun facts
- A single lightning strike carries roughly 15 to 30 Coulombs of charge, enough energy to toast 100,000 slices of bread.
Related words
Explore more words
electron, particle, capacitance, subatomic, Force, resistance
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