Question

The SI unit of electrostatic potential energy is:

Options

• Joule (J)

• Volt (J/C)

• Volt per metre (V/m)

• Coulomb (C)

Answer 1

Electrostatic potential energy is the energy possessed by a charge due to its position in an electric field, so it is measured in joules (J). Electrostatic potential, being energy per unit charge, is instead measured in volts (J/C).