Electric Flux Through Shown Surface

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating electric flux through a specified surface, emphasizing the importance of understanding the definition and formula for electric flux, which is given by E x A cos(theta). Participants stress the need for the original poster to identify known quantities and apply them correctly in the formula. There is a warning against misinterpreting the mathematical notation used in the context. Additionally, the conversation highlights the significance of considering the angle of the electric field relative to the surface when calculating flux. Overall, the thread encourages a clear understanding of the concepts and proper application of the formula to solve the problem.
kyang002
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What is the electric flux through the surface shown in the figure (attachment)?
 

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What ideas do you have?
 
I'm unsure of how to do this problem. No ideas so far.
 
What is the definition of electric flux?
(Look up in your book)

And, do NOT double post (posting the same question twice or more), and show your own work or at least your ideas/what you are uncertain of in the future.
 
Well, of course as he/she said: he/she has no ideas so far
 
Just saying "I have no idea" is like asking to NOT be helped. At least, for sure, kyang002 can find the definition of electric flux, and then try at least to correlate it with the problem.

Actually, just typing the definition here will provide a starting point for others to help.
 
I think writing down the equation for electric flux would just about answer this question completely...(after plugging in 2 numbers)
 
Electric Flux would be E x A or EA cos theta.
 
The answer is 1. But I have no idea of doing it. Again no help is given.
 
  • #10
kyang002 said:
Electric Flux would be E x A or EA cos theta.

I simply hope u didn't mean
|\vec{E}\times\vec{A}|=EA\cos\theta

That "x" would invite to an erroneous interpretation.

To the OP:It's only about applying the (simple) definition and using a bit of trigonometry...

Daniel.
 
  • #11
kyang002 said:
Electric Flux would be E x A or EA cos theta.
E*A*Cos(theta)

Ok, they give you E,A,and theta. PLUG IT IN A CALCULATOR

You see, flux is the measurement of the field passing through the surface, times the area of the surface (simplest, non integral way).

So if your field is at a 30 degree angle to the horizontal surface, you need what's passing perpindicularly(right-angle) to the surface.

So its a right triangle,
/|
/ |
----

And if you want the Y edge, Cos(left angle) = Height/Hypot
Hypot = E field so
Efield*(cos(theta)) = Height

So E*Cos(theta) * Area = fllux
 
  • #12
kyang:
1. Could you identify the quantities you have been given?
2. Where should those quantities be plugged into the formula you have presented?
(That is, the flux is given by EA\cos\theta)

Note: Be careful with the angle!
 
  • #13
Now I understand. Thanks guys.
 
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