Does Zero Electric Potential Necessarily Mean Zero Electric Field?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the relationship between electric potential (V) and electric field (E). It establishes that if the electric potential V is zero at a point, the electric field E must also be zero at that point only in uniform fields. Conversely, if the electric field E is zero, the potential V can either be zero or a constant value. The equation E = -dV/dx is highlighted as a key concept in understanding non-uniform electric fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and electric field concepts
  • Familiarity with the equation E = -dV/dx
  • Basic knowledge of uniform and non-uniform electric fields
  • Concept of electric charge interactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of electric potential in non-uniform electric fields
  • Explore examples of electric fields and potentials in real-world applications
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of E = -dV/dx
  • Investigate the concept of equipotential surfaces in electrostatics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of electrostatics and electric fields.

pinkerpikachu
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1. If V= 0 at a point in space, must E=0 there? If E=0 at some point must V=0 at that point? And examples for each?


I'm pretty confused on both parts. I haven't really been understanding much of this electric charge/electric field stuff.

I know, just from an equation at V= -Ed, but I don't quite understand this conceptually.
 
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When the electric field is not uniform, the electric potential at any point is given be
E = - dV/dx i.e. negative tare of change of potential.
If V is zero E must be zero. If E = 0, V may be zero or a constant.
 

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