Comparing Electric Potential of +Q at A & B

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on comparing the electric potential of a point charge +Q at two locations: point A, which is at a distance r, and point B, which is at a distance 2r from +Q. The electric potential at point A is calculated using the formula V = kQ/r, resulting in V_A = kQ/r. For point B, the potential is V_B = kQ/(2r), which simplifies to V_B = (1/2)(kQ/r). Therefore, the electric potential at point B is half that of point A.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and Coulomb's law
  • Familiarity with the formula V = kQ/r for electric potential
  • Basic knowledge of point charges in electrostatics
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of electric potential energy in electrostatics
  • Learn about the superposition principle for electric potentials
  • Explore the relationship between electric field and electric potential
  • Investigate the effects of multiple charges on electric potential
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrostatics, physics educators, and anyone preparing for exams involving electric potential and charge interactions.

physicsstar26
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Homework Statement


Two test charges are brought separately into the vicinity of charge +Q. First the test charge +q is brought to a point A, a distance r from +Q. Next, +q is removed and a test charge +3q is broguht to a point B, a distance 2r from +Q. Compared with the electric potential of +Q at point A, that of +Q at B is how much that of A. The choices are tiwce that of A, 1.5 times, the same as A, half of A, or 3/4 that of A



Homework Equations


I was using the equation kq/r for electric potential and plugging in numbers but I'm unsure what to else to do.


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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physicsstar26 said:

Homework Statement


Two test charges are brought separately into the vicinity of charge +Q. First the test charge +q is brought to a point A, a distance r from +Q. Next, +q is removed and a test charge +3q is broguht to a point B, a distance 2r from +Q. Compared with the electric potential of +Q at point A, that of +Q at B is how much that of A. The choices are tiwce that of A, 1.5 times, the same as A, half of A, or 3/4 that of A



Homework Equations


I was using the equation kq/r for electric potential and plugging in numbers but I'm unsure what to else to do.


OK, this is a sneaky one. Be careful about the fact that they are asking about the electric *potential* of the +Q charge at points A and B. You have the correct formula for the potential, so what should you write for each part of the comparison?
 

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