Electric Field Problem: Magnitude & Force Calculation for Cell Membrane

In summary, the conversation discusses the properties of a cell membrane and how it can be modeled as a parallel plate capacitor. The effective charge density on the inner and outer walls is given and the magnitude of the electric field within the membrane is to be determined. Additionally, the magnitude of the electric force on a potassium ion placed inside the membrane is also requested. The possibility of modeling the membrane as a spherical shell is brought up, but it is ultimately concluded that using Gauss law is the appropriate approach.
  • #1
WGDawg3
6
0
Yet another problem I'm stuck on tonight...

The membrane surrounding a living cell consists of an inner and an outer wall that are separated by a small space. Assume that the membrane acts like a parallel plate capacitor in which the effective charge density on the inner and outer walls has a magnitude of 7.1x10^-6 C/m^2. (a) What is the magnitude of the electric field within the cell membrane? (b) Find the magnitude of the electric force that would be exerted on a potassium ion (K+; charge = +e) placed inside the membrane.

No clue... lol.
 
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  • #2
Is it possible to model the membrane as a spherical shell? That seems to be the only way since the shape of the membrane isn't described. Just use Gauss law here.
 
  • #3
They want you to treat the membrane as a parallel plate capacitor. To start, what is the relationship between the charge density on the plate of a parallel plate capacitor and it's electric field?
 

Related to Electric Field Problem: Magnitude & Force Calculation for Cell Membrane

1. What is an electric field problem?

An electric field problem refers to a physics problem that involves calculating the strength and direction of an electric field at different points in space, typically due to the presence of one or more charged particles or objects.

2. What are the steps for solving an electric field problem?

The steps for solving an electric field problem typically involve identifying the known values such as the charges and distances involved, using Coulomb's law to calculate the electric force at each point, and then using the electric field equation to determine the strength and direction of the electric field at each point.

3. What are some common difficulties when solving electric field problems?

Common difficulties when solving electric field problems include keeping track of the direction and magnitude of the electric field at different points, understanding the effects of multiple charges on the electric field, and correctly applying the equations and principles involved.

4. How can I check my answer for an electric field problem?

You can check your answer for an electric field problem by using the principle of superposition, which states that the total electric field at a point is equal to the vector sum of the individual electric fields from each charge. You can also use the electric field formula to calculate the electric field at different points and compare it to your calculated value.

5. Are there any real-world applications of electric field problems?

Yes, electric field problems have many real-world applications such as in designing electronic circuits, calculating the forces between charged particles in medical treatments such as radiation therapy, and in understanding the behavior of lightning and thunderstorms. They are also used in the development of new technologies such as capacitive touch screens and electric motors.

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