How to Calculate the Electric Field of an Infinite Plane at a Specific Point?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the electric field generated by an infinite plane with a given surface charge density at a specific point in space. The subject area is electromagnetism, specifically electric fields due to charged surfaces.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for the electric field due to a surface charge density and consider the direction of the electric field. There are questions about the components of the electric field vector and the need for a unit vector.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring the magnitude and direction of the electric field. Some guidance has been offered regarding the normalization of the direction vector, and there is acknowledgment of potential sign issues in the components.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can use or the methods they can apply.

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Homework Statement


An infinite plane (2y+z=3) has surface charge density of sigma=2 microC/m2. Find the electric field at (0,0,2)m


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Would this just be E=sigma/2*epsilon-naught? Would the answer just be 1 microC/m2 over epsilon-naught?
 
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So that would be the right magnitude, but what about direction?
 
Isn't it just the direction normal to the plane? In this case would it be (0,2,1)?
 
Right, and really you want a unit vector so divide by sqrt(5). Looks good to me.
 
I think both components are supposed to be negative, but either way I got it it now. Thanks.
 
Oh right, well I suppose that, yeah, you will have the negative. I spaced that one out.
 
No problem. Thanks.
 

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