How to Derive the Electric Field Above an Infinitely Long Charged Sheet?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving the electric field above an infinitely long charged sheet, specifically focusing on the setup involving surface charge density and the geometry of the sheet. The problem is set within the context of electrostatics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about how to approach the problem, with one noting the challenge of applying knowledge from finite planes to an infinite sheet. There is mention of needing to use an improper integral, but details on how to proceed are lacking.

Discussion Status

The discussion is in an early stage, with participants seeking clarification on foundational concepts and expressions related to electric fields. Some guidance is being sought regarding the transition from finite to infinite charge distributions.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight a lack of resources or examples in their materials specifically addressing infinite sheets, which may be contributing to their confusion. There is also an indication that the problem may involve assumptions about symmetry and charge distribution that need to be examined.

kirakyoumou
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An infinitely long sheet of charge of width L lies in the xy-plane between x = - L/2 and x = L/2. The surface charge density is n. Derive an expression for the electric field E at height z above the centerline of the sheet. (Assume that z \ge 0.)

Express your answer in terms of the variables n, L, z, unit vector k, and appropriate constants.
 
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What have you tried?
 
I don't even know where to start. My book only gives explanations for FINITE planes. :( I know that I'll have to use an improper integral but...idk anything else.
 
What is the expression used to calculate E for a finite surface?
 

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