Calculating Work on a Charged Particle in an Electric Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work done on a charged particle in an electric field, specifically a -2.0*10^-3 C charge moving from 0.2 m to 0.9 m away from a -6.0*10^-3 C charge. The initial force calculations using Coulomb's Law (F = qs*qt*k/r^2) yielded incorrect work values. The correct approach involves calculating the electric potential difference between the two distances and applying the work formula W = qV, leading to the expected result of -4.2*10^5 J.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law for electric forces
  • Familiarity with electric potential and potential difference
  • Knowledge of work-energy principles in physics
  • Ability to perform calculations involving scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study electric potential and its calculation in electric fields
  • Learn about the relationship between work and electric potential (W = qV)
  • Explore advanced applications of Coulomb's Law in multi-charge systems
  • Investigate the concept of electric field lines and their implications on charge movement
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Students in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, as well as educators looking for practical examples of work done on charged particles in electric fields.

Dillion
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Homework Statement


A -2.0*10^-3 C charge is 0.2 m away from a -6.0*10^-3 C charge. How much work is must be done on the first charge to move it to a distance of 0.9m?

Homework Equations


F = qs*qt*k/r^2

W = F * d* cos theta

The Attempt at a Solution


(-2.0*10^-3)(-6.0*10^-3)(9*10^9)/0.2^2
=2700000 N
(-2.0*10^-3)(-6.0*10^-3)(9*10^9)/0.7^2
=220408.1633 N

W = 2700000N * .2 = 540000
W = 220408.1633 * .7 = 154285.7143

The sum of those is 694285.7143This is obviously not right because the answer is supposed to be -4.2*10^5
 
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I think It is easy to use potential method, first calculate the potential difference 0.2m to 0.9m due to the second charge,
the use the eqn, W=qV
 

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