Electric Field and Potential Scenario

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on identifying scenarios where both the electric potential and electric field are simultaneously zero. It is established that at the midpoint of a dipole, the potential is zero while the electric field is non-zero, and conversely, between two identical charges, the electric field is zero while the potential remains non-zero. The only definitive scenario where both the electric potential and electric field are zero is at infinity, where the influence of charges diminishes to zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and potentials
  • Familiarity with dipole systems
  • Knowledge of Coulomb's law
  • Basic calculus for integration in electric field calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the behavior of electric fields and potentials in dipole configurations
  • Explore the concept of electric potential at infinity
  • Learn about the superposition principle in electrostatics
  • Investigate the mathematical derivation of electric field and potential equations
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, educators teaching electric field concepts, and anyone preparing for exams in electrostatics.

JoeManSho
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Homework Statement


I was wondering in what situation would the potential and the electric field of the system both be equal to zero at the same time?

Homework Equations


W=-ΔU=-ΔVq
ΔV=-∫Edr
V=kQ/r (with reference r->∞)

The Attempt at a Solution


I know for the middle of a dipole the potential is zero while the electric field is non-zero.
Then for the middle of two identical charges the electric field is zero while the potential is non-zero.
I've been stuck on trying to think of a scenario where both are zero.
Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
JoeManSho said:
I've been stuck on trying to think of a scenario where both are zero.
How about at infinity?
 

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