Finding the work done in carrying a charge from P1 to P2

In summary, the work done in carrying a charge from P1 to P2 is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the charge (q) by the potential difference (V) between the two points, expressed as W = qV. This measure of energy is important in understanding electrical circuits and can be negative if the charge is moving in the opposite direction of the electric field. The distance between P1 and P2 also affects the work done, with a greater distance requiring more work due to the decrease in electric field strength. It is possible for the work to be negative at one point and positive at another, depending on the direction of movement and potential difference.
  • #1
forps
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Homework Statement



Determine the work done in carrying a -2(micro C) charge from point p1(2,1,-1) to p2(8,2,-1) in the field E = axy + ayx

a) along the parabola x = 2y^2
b) Along the straight line joining p1 and p2

Homework Equations



W = F*dS = Fxdx + Fydy + Fzdz
 
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  • #2
That's right, continue...

Also you know that a and b better give the same answer in the end because curlE is 0 for electrostatics.
 

1. How is the work done in carrying a charge from P1 to P2 calculated?

The work done in carrying a charge from P1 to P2 is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the charge (q) by the potential difference (V) between the two points. This can be expressed in the formula W = qV. The unit of work is joules (J).

2. What is the significance of the work done in carrying a charge?

The work done in carrying a charge is a measure of the energy required to move the charge from one point to another. It is an important concept in understanding electrical circuits and the transfer of energy in electric fields.

3. Can the work done in carrying a charge be negative?

Yes, the work done in carrying a charge can be negative if the charge is moving in the direction opposite to the electric field. This means that the electric field is doing work on the charge, rather than the charge doing work on the field.

4. How does the distance between P1 and P2 affect the work done in carrying a charge?

The work done in carrying a charge is directly proportional to the distance between P1 and P2. This means that the greater the distance, the more work is required to move the charge. This is because the electric field strength decreases with distance, resulting in a smaller potential difference between the two points.

5. Can the work done in carrying a charge be negative at one point and positive at another point?

Yes, it is possible for the work done in carrying a charge to be negative at one point and positive at another point. This occurs when the charge is moving from a point where the potential is higher to a point where the potential is lower. In this case, the work done by the electric field is negative while the work done by the charge is positive.

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