Electric Field of a Straight Wire (now with the attachment)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field of a straight wire using the formula dE=kdQ/r² and integrating to find the total electric field. The user initially struggled with the integration process and the interpretation of the answer required by an online homework program. Ultimately, the user resolved the issue by realizing that the answer needed to be expressed in terms of epsilon rather than as a numerical value. This highlights the importance of understanding the specific requirements of homework problems in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric field concepts and equations, specifically dE=kdQ/r².
  • Familiarity with calculus, particularly integration techniques.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric identities and their application in physics problems.
  • Experience with online homework systems and their formatting requirements.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric fields from continuous charge distributions.
  • Learn about the application of integration in physics, especially in electromagnetism.
  • Explore the significance of expressing answers in different formats, such as in terms of epsilon.
  • Review common pitfalls in physics homework and how to interpret problem statements accurately.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone seeking to improve their problem-solving skills in electric field calculations.

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1. Homework Statement
The word document with the problem is attached below.


2. Homework Equations
dE=kdQ/r22
Ex=Ecos∅

3. The Attempt at a Solution
dE=kdQ/r2
E=kλ∫dy/(x2+y2) (integrating from y= -L/2 to L/2)
Ex=2kλ∫xdy/(x2+y2)3/2 (change integration to y= 0 to L/2, multiplying expression by 2)

Let y=xtan∅
dy=x(sec∅)2 d∅

=2kxλ∫x(sec∅)2/x3(sec∅)3 d∅
=2kλ/x∫cos∅ d∅
=2kλ/x(sin∅)
=2kλ/x(sin(arctan(y/x)) (evaluated from y=0 to y=L/2)
=2kλ/x(y/(x2+y2)1/2 (evaluated from 0->L/2)
=2kλ/x(L/2)(x2+(L2)/4)1/2
=((1.8X10^10)λL/(2x))*(1/x2+(L2)/4)1/2

This isn't the correct answer, though I don't know what actually is. I would appreciate any help or guidance!
 

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Okay, I figured it out. I am using an online HW program and it just wanted the the answer in terms of epsilon, not a numerical value. Thanks anyway!
 

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