Calculating the electric potential at the midpoint

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SUMMARY

The electric potential at the midpoint between two point charges can be calculated using the formula V = k * q / r, where k is Coulomb's constant. To find the electric potential at the midpoint of each side of an equilateral triangle, one must determine the distances from the midpoint to each charge. A diagram and basic geometry are essential for visualizing these distances and applying the formula correctly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law and electric potential
  • Familiarity with the formula V = k * q / r
  • Basic geometry skills for calculating distances
  • Ability to interpret diagrams of geometric shapes
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of electric potential in electrostatics
  • Learn how to apply Coulomb's Law in various configurations
  • Explore geometric methods for calculating distances in triangles
  • Practice problems involving multiple point charges and their potentials
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electrostatics and electric potential calculations, as well as educators looking for teaching resources on these topics.

rrosa522
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Homework Statement


How do you calculate the electric potential at the midpoint between two point charges?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I was asked to find the electric potential at the midpoint of every side of an equilateral triangle. I have no clue how I could do this find the midpoint.
 
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What equation is relevant for finding the electric potential at some distance from a point charge?
 
gneill said:
What equation is relevant for finding the electric potential at some distance from a point charge?
gneill said:
What equation is relevant for finding the electric potential at some distance from a point charge?
V=keq/r
 
rrosa522 said:
V=keq/r
Okay, I presume you mean

##V = k\frac{q}{r}## where k is Coulomb's constant.

So what are the distances to each charge from one of the midpoints of a side of the triangle? Make a diagram and use a bit of geometry.
 

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