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FourierX
Oct11-08, 03:15 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
In the field of a point charge over a plane, if you follow a field line that starts at the point charge in a horizontal direction, that is, parallel to the plane, where does it meet the surface of the conductor?

2. Relevant equations
The problem 'hint' is "You'll need Gauss' law and a simple integration."

3. The attempt at a solution
The electric field on the surface of the conductor at a radius R=\sqrt{r^{2}+h^{2}} (h is the height of the pt charge, r is the x component of the radius on the plane), the Electric field due to the point charge is:
E=\frac{-2Qh}{(r^{2}+h^{2})^{3/2}}. This is given in the book.
I have no idea where to start...

Gokul43201
Oct12-08, 09:20 AM
Have you quoted the question exactly as it was given to you? It appears somewhat poorly written. Is this supposed to be understood in the context of a previous problem, for instance?

Specifically, is the point charge located near an infinite, grounded conducting plane?

Please write down the original question exactly as provided.

FourierX
Oct13-08, 07:00 PM
the plane is grounded and i figured out that the net electric field is directed towards negative Z direction. I have to find out the distance of a point in the plane (x-axis). I thought of using a concept of projectile motion as the trajectory looks parabolic, but I am not quite sure how to get to the final conclusion.