What is quantization of charge? What is the reason for quantization?

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Quantization of charge is the property by virtue of which all free charges are integral multiples of a basic unit of charge, denoted by $e$. This means that any charge $q$ on a body can be expressed as $q = ne$, where $n$ is an integer $(n = 0, \pm 1, \pm 2, \dots)$ and $e \approx 1.602 \times 10^{-19} \ C$.
The quantization of charge was first suggested by the experimental laws of electrolysis discovered by the English scientist Michael Faraday. It was later experimentally demonstrated by Robert Millikan in $1912$.
The fundamental reason for quantization is that during the process of charging (such as rubbing two bodies together), only an integral number of electrons can be transferred from one body to another. Since an electron cannot be divided into smaller parts, the charge transferred must always be an integer multiple of the elementary charge $e$.

Explore More

Similar Questions

When a body is connected to the earth,electrons from the earth flow into the body. This means the body is initially:

Why is a spark seen when removing synthetic clothes in the dark during winter?

The electric charge on an $\alpha$-particle is ....... .

Assertion $(A)$: Half of the charge of an electron does not exist. Reason $(R)$: Electric charge is quantized.

Rubbing a plastic rod with wool gives the plastic rod a negative charge of $8 \times 10^{-7} \ C$. How many electrons have been transferred,and from where to whom?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo