Electric Potential at Origin of Point Charges?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the electric potential at the origin due to two equal point charges of 4.0 μC located at x1 = -2.0 m and x2 = 2.0 m. The relevant equation used is ΔV = Kc (q/r), where Kc is the Coulomb's constant. Participants confirm that the voltages from both charges do not cancel each other out at the midpoint; instead, they add together as scalars, resulting in a non-zero electric potential at the origin.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and point charges
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's law and the constant Kc
  • Basic knowledge of scalar quantities in physics
  • Ability to perform calculations involving distances and magnitudes
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of electric potential energy and its relation to point charges
  • Learn about superposition principle in electrostatics
  • Explore the implications of electric potential in different coordinate systems
  • Investigate the effects of multiple charges on electric potential
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding electric potential in electrostatics.

freeofwork
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Homework Statement



Two equal point charges of magnitude 4.0 μC are situated along the x-axis at x1=-2.0m and x2= 2.0m. What is the electric potential at the origin of the xy coordinate system?


Homework Equations



ΔV= Kc (q/r)

The Attempt at a Solution



Do voltages cancel each other out at the mid point or do they add up?
 
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hi freeofwork! :smile:
freeofwork said:
Do voltages cancel each other out at the mid point or do they add up?

(can't they do both? :wink:)

voltage is (electric) potential energy per charge, and so can be positive or negative

energies add (as scalars), so voltages do also :smile:
 
so its not zero right?
 

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