Two infinite charged lines -- find the locations where E=0

In summary, the question asks to find the location(s) where the electric field is zero for two uniformly charged, infinite, parallel lines with distances between them. The equations used are based on the electric field strength being proportional to the charge length-density over the distance from the wire. The solution involves setting up an equation with the charge length-densities and the distance between the lines, and solving for the distance from one of the lines in terms of the distance between the lines.
  • #1
Grifter
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Homework Statement



A very long (infinite), straight line of charge runs parallel to another very long (infinite) straight line of charge. Both lines are uniformly charged, one with +1*(lambda) and the other with -2*(lambda). The distance between them is d. Find (if any) the location(s) where the electric field is zero.

Homework Equations



[infinite wire] E = 1/(2(pi)(epsilon naught)) * (lambda)/r
[2 wires] E = (sigma1)(sigma2) / 2(epsilon naught)
sigma=area charge
lambda=line charge
epsilon naught=8.854e-12 C^2/N*m^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I drew a picture with the positively charged line with E-lines flowing away and the negatively charged line with E-lines flowing in. Between the E-lines flow from positive to negative. Not sure about the relationship between lambda and sigma or how to use an equation to find E=0 with variable charges.
 
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  • #2
From a distance r from a wire of charge lenght-density λ (Coloumb per meter) the electric field strenght is proportional to λ/r

You want to solve the equation λ1/r + λ2/(d-r) = 0
Just use that λ2 = -2λ1 and solve for r in terms of d
 

What does it mean for the electric field to be zero in this scenario?

When the electric field is zero in this scenario, it means that there is no force acting on a charged particle placed at that location. This could occur when the two infinite charged lines have equal and opposite charges, causing the electric fields to cancel each other out at certain points.

How do you determine the locations where E=0 in this situation?

To find the locations where E=0, you would need to use the mathematical equations for electric fields and superposition. This involves setting the equations for the electric fields of each charged line equal to each other, and then solving for the values of x and y that satisfy this equation.

Can the locations where E=0 change if the charges on the infinite lines are altered?

Yes, the locations where E=0 can change if the charges on the infinite lines are altered. This is because the strength and direction of the electric fields produced by the charged lines would change, potentially causing the fields to cancel out at different points.

What is the significance of finding the locations where E=0 in this scenario?

Finding the locations where E=0 in this scenario can provide valuable information about the electric fields and charges involved. It can also be useful in understanding the behavior of charged particles in this system, as well as predicting and manipulating the electric fields at different points.

Are there any practical applications for studying the electric fields of two infinite charged lines?

Yes, there are practical applications for studying the electric fields of two infinite charged lines. This scenario is often used in theoretical and mathematical models to understand more complex systems, such as the electric fields produced by multiple charged objects. It can also be applied in engineering and technology, such as in the design of capacitors and circuitry.

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