Electric potential at a point between 3 point charges

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the total electric potential at a specific point between three point charges: Q1 = -3 µC at (0,0), Q2 = 10 µC at (0,0.5 m), and Q3 = -3 µC at (x,0). The formula used for electric potential is Vp = V1 + V2 + V3, where V = k * q/r. The correct expression for the total potential at the point (x/2,0) is V = k([-3/(x/2)] + 10/sqrt[(0.5)^2 + (x/2)^2] + (-3/(x/2)) * 10^-6). The goal is to determine the value of x that results in a total potential of zero at this point.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and point charges
  • Familiarity with the formula V = k * q/r
  • Knowledge of coordinate systems in physics
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of electric potential due to multiple point charges
  • Learn about the principle of superposition in electrostatics
  • Explore vector analysis of electric fields and potentials
  • Investigate the implications of charge configurations on electric potential
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics, particularly those interested in calculating electric potentials in multi-charge systems.

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Homework Statement



Three pointcharges are located at the following points on an x-y coordinate system, Q1 = -3 uC at (0,0) q2 = 10.0 uc at (0,0.5m), and q3 = -3 uC at (x,0) . What is the total electric potential at the point (x/2,0) where x is in units of m. At what value does x have to be, for the potential at point (x/2,0) =0

Homework Equations



Vp =V1+v2+v3
V= k * q/r

The Attempt at a Solution


V= k([-3/(x/2)) + (10/(sq rt (.5 =(x/2)))+(-3/(x/2))

Am I going about this wrong? Should i do a vector analysis of the electric field? How do i get this to all = 0?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
V= k([-3/(x/2)) + (10/(sq rt (.5 =(x/2)))+(-3/(x/2))
It is wrong.
It should be
V= k([-3/(x/2)] + 10/sq rt[ (.5)^2 +(x/2)^2]+(-3/(x/2))*10^-6
 

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