Equipotential Surfaces Question

In summary, equipotential surfaces are constant electric potential surfaces in a region of space where the electric field is perpendicular and the work done by the field is zero. They are related to electric fields as they are perpendicular to the electric field lines and are used in physics and engineering to visualize and analyze electric fields and design equipment. They can exist in a vacuum as they are independent of the presence of matter. Isopotential surfaces, on the other hand, are surfaces where a different physical quantity is constant and can exist in systems without electric fields.
  • #1
predentalgirl1
67
1
[SOLVED] Equipotential Surfaces Question

If the radius of the equipotential surface of point charge is 14.3 m at a potential of 2.20 kV, what is the magnitude of the point charge creating the potential?








have V = [1/4πεo] [q/r]
Given that,
V = 2.20kV = 2200V
r = 14.3m
Therefore,
q = 2200 x 14.3
9.0 x 10^9
= 3.495 x 10-6μC

Correct? Not correct? Please help me!
 
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  • #2
Methot is correct. Final ans not correct.

(Do your own arithmetic.)
 
  • #3
What did I do wrong? Why is my final answer incorrect?
 
  • #4
What is your final unit, microcoulomb or coulomb?
 
  • #5
C (3.5 x10^-6 C?)
 
Last edited:
  • #6
Right.
 

Related to Equipotential Surfaces Question

1. What are equipotential surfaces?

Equipotential surfaces are surfaces in a region of space where the electric potential is constant. This means that the electric field is perpendicular to the surface at every point, and the work done by the electric field to move a charge from one point on the surface to another is zero.

2. How are equipotential surfaces related to electric fields?

Equipotential surfaces are perpendicular to electric field lines. This means that the electric field is strongest where the equipotential surfaces are closest together, and weakest where they are farthest apart. Electric field lines always point from higher to lower potential, so they will cross equipotential surfaces at right angles.

3. How are equipotential surfaces used in physics and engineering?

Equipotential surfaces are used to visualize and analyze electric fields. They can be used to calculate the electric field at a specific point, determine the path a charged particle will take in an electric field, and design electrical circuits and equipment. They are also important in understanding the behavior of lightning and other high-voltage phenomena.

4. Can equipotential surfaces exist in a vacuum?

Yes, equipotential surfaces can exist in a vacuum. The concept of electric potential and equipotential surfaces is independent of the presence of matter. In a vacuum, the electric field is created by the charges themselves, and the equipotential surfaces will still be perpendicular to the electric field lines and have a constant potential.

5. What is the difference between equipotential surfaces and isopotential surfaces?

Equipotential surfaces are surfaces where the electric potential is constant, while isopotential surfaces are surfaces where a different physical quantity is constant, such as temperature or pressure. Isopotential surfaces can exist in systems where there are no electric fields present, whereas equipotential surfaces are only relevant in the presence of electric fields.

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