What Happens When an Object is Placed in an Electric Field

When an object is placed in an electric field, it is exposed to an electric force which causes the object to move in a certain direction. In some cases, when the electric field is strong enough, the object may become luminescent. This phenomenon is known as electroluminescence and can result in the object glowing in various colors.

The Color of Electroluminescence

The Color of Electroluminescence

The color of electroluminescence depends on the type of material that the object is made of. Generally, materials such as plastic, glass or metal can emit a range of colors when placed in an electric field, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue and even white. In some cases, the object may glow in more than one color.

Orange Red When in an Electric Field

Orange Red When in an Electric Field

In particular, when an object is placed in an electric field, it may glow orange red. This color is the result of the object emitting higher energy photons, which appear to the human eye as a warm orange-red color. This is different from the yellow-green color emitted when the object is exposed to a weaker electric field.

Uses of Electroluminescence

Uses of Electroluminescence

Electroluminescence has a number of uses in industrial, commercial and scientific applications. For example, electroluminescent materials can be used as indicators on electrical equipment, such as circuit breakers, transformers and switches. Additionally, electroluminescent materials have been used in medical imaging, such as in MRI machines, as well as in optical communication systems and for lighting.



When an object is placed in an electric field, it may luminesce and glow in a range of colors, including orange red. This phenomenon is known as electroluminescence and has a number of practical applications in industrial and commercial fields. Understanding how electroluminescence works can help to better utilize this technology in a variety of situations.