Electric Field and Work on a Moving Charge

  • Thread starter anthonych414
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Electricity
In summary, the conversation discusses the magnitude and direction of a force acting on a charge +q C in a constant electric field ε V/m, the work done by the force when the charge moves a distance d m, the voltage at a given point in relation to the electric field, and the relationship between the loss in electric potential energy and the work done by the force. It also explores the connection between the charge's kinetic energy and the loss in electric potential energy. The conversation ends by mentioning the use of energy conservation to solve the problem.
  • #1
anthonych414
86
0

Homework Statement



Given an electric field ε V/m that is constant in the x-direction and a charge +q C located at the origin and free to move in the x-direction. (a) What is the magnitude and direction of the force F acting on q? (b) If q moves under the influence of F a distance d m, how much work is done by F? (c) Assuming the voltage at the origin to be zero, what is the voltage Vd at x = d m, bearing in mind that ε = -dv/dx? (d) How is the loss in electric potential energy related to the work done by F? (e) Assuming the charge has a mass m kg and zero velocity at the origin, show that the KE of the charge at x = d is equal to the loss in electric potential energy.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



a. F= εNq in the positive direction
b. W=Fd
c. I can guess that it's -εx but I don't know how to explain it properly
d. Equal by conservation of energy.
e. Not too sure how.

Thank you in advance.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
a-d: right.
For (e), I would use energy conservation. Alternatively, calculate the acceleration, and use this to determine the velocity there.

The question uses an ugly way to deal with units :(.
 

1. What is electricity?

Electricity is a form of energy that is caused by the movement of electrons. It is essential for powering various devices and is a vital part of our everyday lives.

2. What are the basic components of an electrical circuit?

The basic components of an electrical circuit include a power source (such as a battery), wires to conduct the electricity, and a load (such as a light bulb) that uses the electricity.

3. How does electricity flow in a circuit?

Electricity flows in a circuit from the positive terminal of the power source, through the wires, and into the load. It then flows back to the negative terminal of the power source to complete the circuit.

4. What is the difference between AC and DC electricity?

AC (alternating current) electricity switches direction periodically, while DC (direct current) electricity flows in one direction. Most household outlets provide AC electricity, while batteries provide DC electricity.

5. How do I calculate the power usage of an electrical device?

To calculate the power usage of an electrical device, you will need to know the voltage and current of the device. You can then use the formula P=VI (power = voltage x current) to determine the device's power usage in watts.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
148
Replies
1
Views
126
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
385
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
524
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
142
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
758
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
772
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
999
Replies
22
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
887
Back
Top