Equipotential surface

In summary, an equipotential surface is a surface with a constant electric potential. It is always perpendicular to electric field lines and helps us understand the behavior of electric fields and potential in a system. It is also used in practical applications such as designing electrical circuits and determining capacitance.
  • #1
endeavor
176
0
"For a point charge of +3.50 microC what is the radius of the equipotential surface that is at a potential of 2.40 kV?"

For a point charge, the voltage = kq/r, where k =9*10^9 N*m^2/C^2, q is the charge, and r is the radius. Solving for r, I get r = 13.1 m. But the answer is 12.6m...
 
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  • #2
Your method is correct.
The difference isn't all that alarming and has probably risen in your approximate value of k .
 
  • #3
ok, thanks!
 

What is an equipotential surface?

An equipotential surface is a surface in which every point on the surface has the same electric potential. This means that no work is required to move an electric charge from one point on the surface to another.

How is an equipotential surface related to electric fields?

An equipotential surface is always perpendicular to the electric field lines. This means that the electric field is always parallel to the surface and no work is done when moving a charge along the surface.

How do equipotential surfaces relate to the electric potential?

An equipotential surface is defined by a constant electric potential. This means that every point on the surface has the same electric potential and no work is required to move a charge along the surface.

What is the significance of equipotential surfaces in electrical systems?

Equipotential surfaces help us visualize and understand the behavior of electric fields and potential in a given system. They also allow us to calculate the work done in moving a charge through an electric field.

How can equipotential surfaces be used in practical applications?

Equipotential surfaces are used in various practical applications, such as in the design of electrical circuits and grounding systems. They also play a crucial role in electrostatic shielding and determining the capacitance of conductors.

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