Can E=V/d be used to calculate the electric field of a dipole?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the formula E=V/d for calculating the electric field of a dipole. It is established that while E=V/d can be used to find the electric field strength, this formula is only valid for uniform electric fields. The electric field generated by a dipole is non-uniform, and a more accurate approach involves using E = ΔV/Δx, where ΔV is the potential difference and Δx is the distance over which the potential difference is measured. The discussion emphasizes the importance of minimizing Δx for improved accuracy in electric field calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and potential differences
  • Familiarity with dipole configurations in electrostatics
  • Knowledge of the relationship between electric field strength and voltage
  • Basic skills in experimental measurement techniques
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  • Research the characteristics of non-uniform electric fields in dipoles
  • Learn about the method of measuring potential differences in electrostatics
  • Explore advanced techniques for calculating electric fields, such as using Gauss's Law
  • Study the impact of measurement distance on electric field accuracy
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LostThoughts
This is from a lab where my team found the equipotential lines from the electric field of a dipole. The information I was given to calculate the magnitude of the electric field seems too simple, and for some reason I'm expecting this to be more complex. So, this is my attempt at double checking. Can E=V/d be used for all of this?

1. Homework Statement

Determine the magnitude of the average electric field between two sets equipotential lines.
0.5v to 1v d=0.022m
5v to 5.5v d=0.022m

Determine the magnitude of the average electric field between the two pins.
pinnegative=0v pinpositive=6v d=0.087m

Determine the magnitude of the average electric field between one pin and each equipotential line.
V=2v d=0.035m
V=3v d=0.042m
V=4v d=0.057m
V=5v d=0.069m

Homework Equations


E=F/q V=W/q W=Fd E=V/d
 
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LostThoughts said:
Can E=V/d be used for all of this?
This is correct only if the field is uniform. The electric field generated by a dipole is not uniform. If you measure the potential difference ΔV in a direction perpendicular to a given equipotential, the electric field at that general point is approximately given by E = ΔV/Δx, where Δx is the distance over which you measured the potential difference. The smaller you make Δx, the more accurate your value for E. In your case you probably used a two-prong connector with about 1 cm separation between prongs, so you have no control over that.
 

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