What is the Relationship Between Electric Field and Potential?

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SUMMARY

The relationship between electric field (E) and electric potential (V) is defined by the equation dV/dr = -E. This indicates that the rate of change of electric potential with respect to distance (r) is equal to the negative of the electric field. The discussion highlights the derivation of electric potential V from the formula V = kq/r and electric field E from E = kq/(r^2), emphasizing the importance of differentiation in understanding this relationship.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential (V) and electric field (E)
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically differentiation
  • Knowledge of Coulomb's law and constants like k (Coulomb's constant)
  • Basic concepts of electrostatics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric potential from electric field
  • Learn about the implications of the negative sign in dV/dr = -E
  • Explore the applications of electric fields in electrostatics
  • Investigate the relationship between electric potential energy and electric potential
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineering professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of electrostatics and the relationship between electric fields and potentials.

shirel
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Hi,

I don't understand why dV/dr=-E

As far as I know:
V=kq/r
E=Kq/(r^2)
so V/r becomes to be E and not -E.
 
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shirel said:
V=kq/r
What's dV/dr for that potential? Compare that to E.
 
ohh I should derivate the function! thank you :)
 

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