Work needed to move conductor in constant electric field

Thread starter Nikitin
Start date Feb 8, 2013
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Conductor Constant Electric Electric field Field Work

In summary, work in terms of moving a conductor in a constant electric field is the energy required to move the conductor against the electric field. The work is calculated using the formula W = Fd, with units of Joules (J). The work does not depend on the charge of the conductor and is always positive due to the opposition of the force and electric field.

Feb 8, 2013

Nikitin

How did Walther Lewin arrive to the result W = x*(σ/2ε₀) in 3:00-4:00? Ie, why did he take the average? I don't get it entirely.

Last edited by a moderator: Sep 25, 2014

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Feb 9, 2013

Nikitin

never mind this thread, problem is solved.

1. What is the definition of work in terms of moving a conductor in a constant electric field?

Work is defined as the force required to move an object a certain distance. In the context of moving a conductor in a constant electric field, work is the energy needed to move the conductor against the electric field.

2. How is the work calculated for moving a conductor in a constant electric field?

The formula for calculating the work needed to move a conductor in a constant electric field is W = Fd, where W is work, F is the force applied to move the conductor, and d is the distance the conductor is moved.

3. What are the units for work when moving a conductor in a constant electric field?

The units for work in this scenario are Joules (J), which is the standard unit for measuring energy.

4. Does the work needed to move a conductor in a constant electric field depend on the charge of the conductor?

No, the work needed to move a conductor in a constant electric field does not depend on the charge of the conductor. It only depends on the force applied to move the conductor and the distance it is moved.

5. Is the work needed to move a conductor in a constant electric field always positive?

Yes, the work needed to move a conductor in a constant electric field is always positive. This is because the force applied to move the conductor is in the opposite direction of the electric field, resulting in work being done against the field.