Coulomb
| Formula / Notation | F = kq₁q₂/r² (Coulomb's law); 1 C = charge of ~6.242 × 10¹⁸ protons |
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| Also Known As | C, unit of charge, SI charge unit |
What is Coulomb?
The coulomb (C) is the SI unit of electric charge, equal to the charge transported by a current of one ampere in one second. In Faraday's laws of electrolysis, one faraday (96,485 C) is the charge of one mole of electrons. Coulomb's law describes the electrostatic force between charged particles: F = kq₁q₂/r².
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: C, unit of charge, SI charge unit
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
The coulomb (C) is the SI unit of electric charge, equal to the charge transported by a current of one ampere in one second. In Faraday's laws of electrolysis, one faraday (96,485 C) is the charge of one mole of electrons. Coulomb's law describes the electrostatic force between charged particles: F = kq₁q₂/r².
Coulombs are the fundamental unit in all electrochemical calculations (Faraday's laws of electrolysis), in capacitor energy storage (E = ½CV²), in dosimetry (radiation exposure), and in understanding ion-ion interactions in electrolyte solutions (Coulombic interactions).
No direct safety concern for the unit. Large charge transfers (lightning, capacitor discharge) are lethal. Electrochemical cells operating at high current (many amperes) can cause severe electrical burns and hydrogen/oxygen evolution hazards.
The formula or notation for Coulomb is: F = kq₁q₂/r² (Coulomb's law); 1 C = charge of ~6.242 × 10¹⁸ protons