Electric potential and electric potential energy concept questions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around concepts of electric potential and electric potential energy within the context of a constant electric field. The original poster presents a scenario involving two paths for a charge moving between two points, A and C, and poses questions regarding the relationships between electric potentials and work done along these paths.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between electric potential at different points and question the implications of moving along different paths in an electric field. There is a focus on understanding the definitions of electric potential and potential difference, as well as the relationship between work done and electric potential energy.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the nature of electric potential surfaces and the independence of work from the path taken. However, there remains uncertainty regarding the specific relationship between the electric potential energy at points B and C, with participants seeking further clarification and guidance.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions having multiple attempts to guess answers, indicating a structured homework assignment with potential constraints on the number of tries allowed. There is also a suggestion of needing to understand the underlying concepts better to arrive at the correct answers.

j.frank52
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Hello. This is my first post! Thanks in advance for any help given.

Homework Statement



A constant electric field is in the positive X direction as shown in the diagram below. Also shown are two paths through which a charge can move from point A to point C. In the first path path the charge moves parallel to the Y-axis to B and then parallel to the X-axis to C. In the second path, the charge moves directly from A to C.

VJe0M.png


Select greater than, less than or equal to for the following statements.

1. The electric potential at point A is ___________ the electric potential at point B.

2. The work done on a -17.0 C charge moved along the first path is __________ the work done on a -17.0 C charge moved along the second path.

3. The electric potential energy of a -17.0 C charge at point B is ___________ the electric potential energy of a -17.0 C charge at point C.


Homework Equations



W=Fd
V=U/q

The Attempt at a Solution



1. For this I put equal to because the A and B are on the same equipotential surface.

2. For this I put equal to because work is path independent.

3. For this one I'm unsure how to explain in terms of equations or concepts. I have multiple tries to guess and get the right answer, but I wish to know of how I can actually get to the right choice for this one. Any suggestions or hints?
 
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j.frank52 said:
3. For this one I'm unsure how to explain in terms of equations or concepts. I have multiple tries to guess and get the right answer, but I wish to know of how I can actually get to the right choice for this one. Any suggestions or hints?
Is there a potential difference between B and C? Which direction is the force on a negative charge?

AM
 
What is the definition of electric potential? How are work of the electric field and potential difference related?

ehild
 
Thanks!
 

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