Electric potential between two point charges

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves understanding the relationship between electric potential and the separation distance of two point charges. The original poster seeks to determine how a change in distance affects the electric potential between the charges.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about the relevant formulas for electric potential and questions whether the electric field strength remains constant with changing distance. Other participants suggest considering Coulomb's Law and its relation to electric potential.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different concepts related to electric potential and field strength. Some guidance has been offered regarding the connection between electric potential and the electric field.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the challenge of linking theoretical concepts to the specific problem at hand, indicating a potential gap in foundational understanding of electric potential and its dependence on distance.

drawar
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Homework Statement


Two point charges are separated by a distance r. If the separation is reduced by a factor of 3/2, by what factor does the electric potential between them change?
A. 3/2
B. 2/3
C. 9/4
D. 4/9
E. Sqrt(3/2)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Honestly I couldn't think of any formula involving separation of 2 point charges and the electric potential between them. Reading a little more on electric potential, I find that U=Ed but then I'm not sure whether the strength of the electric field remain constant when we change the distance between two point charges.
 
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hi drawar! :smile:
drawar said:
Honestly I couldn't think of any formula involving separation of 2 point charges and the electric potential between them.

coulomb's law? :wink:
 
tiny-tim said:
hi drawar! :smile:


coulomb's law? :wink:

Hi there!
I've just gone over it and still can't figure it out. Does the Coulomb's Law have anything to do with the electric potential?
 
indirectly …

can't you find the potential from the field? :smile:​
 

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