Where does a field line meet the surface of the conductor?

In summary, the problem involves finding the location where a field line from a point charge on a grounded conducting plane intersects the surface of the plane. The hint provided suggests using Gauss' law and integration. The electric field on the surface of the plane can be calculated using the given formula, and the direction of the net electric field is towards the negative Z direction. The goal is to determine the distance of a point on the x-axis, but the method for doing so is unclear. The original question may be poorly written and could possibly be related to a previous problem.
  • #1
FourierX
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Homework Statement


In the field of a point charge over a plane, if you follow a field line that starts at the point charge in a horizontal direction, that is, parallel to the plane, where does it meet the surface of the conductor?

Homework Equations


The problem 'hint' is "You'll need Gauss' law and a simple integration."

The Attempt at a Solution


The electric field on the surface of the conductor at a radius R=[tex]\sqrt{r^{2}+h^{2}}[/tex] (h is the height of the pt charge, r is the x component of the radius on the plane), the Electric field due to the point charge is:
E=[tex]\frac{-2Qh}{(r^{2}+h^{2})^{3/2}}[/tex]. This is given in the book.
I have no idea where to start...
 
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  • #2
Have you quoted the question exactly as it was given to you? It appears somewhat poorly written. Is this supposed to be understood in the context of a previous problem, for instance?

Specifically, is the point charge located near an infinite, grounded conducting plane?

Please write down the original question exactly as provided.
 
  • #3
the plane is grounded and i figured out that the net electric field is directed towards negative Z direction. I have to find out the distance of a point in the plane (x-axis). I thought of using a concept of projectile motion as the trajectory looks parabolic, but I am not quite sure how to get to the final conclusion.
 

1. Why do field lines meet the surface of a conductor?

Field lines meet the surface of a conductor because the conductor provides a path for electric charges to flow. As electric charges flow through the conductor, the electric field lines are redirected towards the surface of the conductor.

2. How does the shape of a conductor affect where field lines meet its surface?

The shape of a conductor can affect where field lines meet its surface. For example, sharp edges or points on a conductor can cause the electric field to concentrate and increase the likelihood of the field lines meeting the surface at those points.

3. Are field lines evenly distributed on the surface of a conductor?

No, field lines are not evenly distributed on the surface of a conductor. The density of field lines is determined by the strength of the electric field, which can vary depending on the shape and charge distribution of the conductor.

4. Do field lines always meet the surface of a conductor at right angles?

Field lines do not always meet the surface of a conductor at right angles. The angle at which field lines meet the surface can vary depending on the shape and orientation of the conductor, as well as the direction and strength of the electric field.

5. Can field lines cross each other on the surface of a conductor?

No, field lines cannot cross each other on the surface of a conductor. This is because electric field lines represent the path of electric forces, and two forces cannot act on the same point in opposite directions at the same time.

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