Charge: GCSE Physics Definition

What is charge?

In GCSE physics, charge is a property that particles have if they experience a force when placed in an electric field. Charge can be positive or negative. For example, electrons are negatively charged particles, and protons are positively charged particles. 

Oppositely charged particles are attracted to one another, and like charges repel one another.

Like charges experience repulsion and oppositely charged particles experience attraction

Objects can become charged when a build up of electrons accumulates on the surface. Electrons can be transferred when objects are rubbed together, resulting in a net negative charge on the object that has gained electrons and a net negative charge on the object that has lost electrons. 

Electrons are transferred from the rod to the cloth leaving the cloth negatively charged and the rod positively charged

When charge flows, we call it current. Current is the amount of charge passing a fixed point per unit time and can be described by the equation:

I = Q/t

Where:

• I = current, measured in amps (A)

• Q = charge, measured in coulombs (C)

• t = time, measured in seconds (s)

Therefore, charge in a circuit can be calculated using:

Q = It

Charge revision resources to ace your exams

You can strengthen your understanding of charge by using our revision notes tailored specifically for the AQA, Edexcel, OCR and WJEC exam boards.

You can practice charge related questions and calculations with helpful guidance and examiner tips using our exam board specific GCSE Physics exam questions. 

Explore Our GCSE Physics Revision Resources