Electric field at some distance from a plate?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field strength above a charged plate using the formula Eplane = n/(2(ε0)). The plate measures 0.1m by 0.1m and contains 10^10 electrons, leading to a charge density that must be accurately computed. The user initially misapplies the formula due to incorrect area calculations, resulting in a significant error in the electric field strength. The correct approach requires precise values for charge density and the permittivity of free space (ε0).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with the concept of permittivity of free space (ε0)
  • Basic knowledge of area calculations in physics
  • Ability to manipulate scientific notation and perform unit conversions
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the electric field formula for infinite planes
  • Calculate charge density using the formula n = Q/A for the given plate dimensions
  • Explore the implications of distance on electric field strength
  • Study the effects of edge effects on electric fields near finite plates
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, as well as educators and anyone involved in solving problems related to electric fields and charge distributions.

m84uily
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Homework Statement


A thin horizontal 0.1m by 0.1m plate is charged with 10^10 electrons. If the electrons are uniformly distributed on the surface, what is the strength of the electric field 0.0001m above the center of the top of the surface of the plate?


Homework Equations


Eplane = n/(2(ε0))
n = Q/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought that because the distance to the edges of the plate is 1000 times greater than the distance that the electric field is being calculated from, that the equation for electric field of a plane could be used.

Eplane = n/(2(ε0))

= 10^10/(2A(ε0))

However this gives me the wrong answer by a very large margin! Thanks in advance for your help.
 
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Charge of an electron is 1.602x10^-19 C.
 

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