Electric Field Zero Points: Square Arrangement of Charges | Homework Question

In summary, in this conversation, the question being discussed is at which points the electric field is equal to zero in a set-up of four charges arranged on the corners of a square. The suggested points are A and B where the x components of the fields are balanced, but it is questioned whether the field in the y direction is also zero at these points. Further discussion includes the possibility of non-zero fields from far away charges at A and B.
  • #1
bap902
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0

Homework Statement


Four charges are arranged on the corner of a square. At which points is the electric field equal to zero?

Diagram:
http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/1994/diagram2zb7.png


Homework Equations


None


The Attempt at a Solution


I chose A and B because the charges are equal so therefore the electric field will be zero right inbetween them.
 
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  • #2
Certainly the x components of the fields are balanced at A & B, but what about the field in the y direction at A & B? Is it 0 at those points?
 
  • #3
Thanks for your help. I don't know about the y direction.
 
  • #4
When you are at A what is the field from the far away negative charges? It would be non-zero wouldn't it?

Likewise at point B for the positive charges.
 

1. What is an electric field?

An electric field is a physical quantity that describes the influence of an electric charge on other charged particles or objects. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

2. How is an electric field measured?

An electric field is measured using a unit called volts per meter (V/m). This unit represents the strength of the electric field at a certain point in space.

3. What factors affect the strength of an electric field?

The strength of an electric field is affected by the magnitude of the charge creating the field, the distance from the charge, and the medium through which the field is propagating.

4. What is the difference between an electric field and an electric potential?

An electric field is a physical quantity that describes the force experienced by a charged particle in the presence of other charges. Electric potential, on the other hand, is the amount of work required to move a unit charge from one point to another in an electric field.

5. How does an electric field relate to electric charges?

An electric field is created by electric charges. The strength and direction of the electric field at a point depend on the magnitude and distribution of the charges creating the field. Conversely, an electric field can exert a force on charges, causing them to move.

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