What is the electric field due to a line of charge at different distances?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field due to a uniformly charged straight wire of length L at various distances along its axis. Two specific cases are analyzed: (a) when the distance z is greater than L/2, and (b) when z is between -L/2 and L/2. The participants clarify that the electric field must be evaluated differently for these two scenarios, emphasizing the importance of understanding the geometry of the problem and the distribution of charge along the wire.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and Coulomb's law
  • Familiarity with the concept of uniformly distributed charge
  • Basic knowledge of calculus for evaluating integrals
  • Concept of electric field lines and their properties
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  • Study the derivation of the electric field due to a line charge using integration techniques
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Amith2006
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Hi guys,
I have got stuck understanding the following problem.
# A straight wire of length L has a uniformly distributed charge Q. Find the electric field on the axis of the wire a distance z from the center of the wire for the cases
(a) z> L/2
(b) -L/2<z<L/2
To begin with, I think they are asking to find the field along the perpendicular bisector of the wire. Also, there are 2 cases to considered. But I don't see much difference between them. Both mean points close to the wire. Have I understood it wrongly? Could anyone clarify it.
 
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I suppose the best way to find out whether they are different cases is to evaluate the general case.
 

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