Electric Potential (Charged Plane)

[GDGirl]

Teacher explained the solution- thanks!

 

[alphysicist]

Hi GDGirl,

Homework Statement

The electric potential of a very large flat metal plate is Vo = 69 V. It carries a uniform distribution of charge of surface density σ = 0.29 μC/m2. Determine the electric potential V at a distance x = 3.3 cm from the plate. Consider the point at x to be far from the edges, and assume that x is much smaller than the plate dimensions.

Homework Equations

V=V₀+Ex

I don't believe this is quite right. Remember that when you move away from positive charges the potential decreases. Do you see what it needs to be?

E=σ/ϵ₀

This could be true, but not the way I read the problem. The formula you have here would be true if they meant that the plate was thick and that each side had σ = 0.29 μC/m2. However, if they meant that the plate was thin, then you would have for the magnitude of the electric field:

$$|E| = \frac{\sigma}{2\epsilon_0}$$

so that might be another problem.

 

[nlightner]

I am glad to see that you have a good understanding of electric potential and its application to a charged plane. It is essential to have a clear understanding of this concept, as it plays a crucial role in many areas of science and technology, such as electrical engineering and physics.

I would like to add that the electric potential of a charged plane is determined by the distance from the plane and the magnitude of the charge. The closer the distance and the larger the charge, the higher the electric potential will be. This is because the electric potential is a measure of the work done in moving a unit charge from infinity to a specific point in space.

In addition, it is worth noting that the electric potential of a charged plane is constant at all points on the plane. This means that the electric potential does not change as you move along the surface of the plane. This is because the charge is evenly distributed over the plane, resulting in a uniform electric field.

Overall, I am pleased to see your understanding of electric potential and its application to a charged plane. Keep up the good work in your studies, as having a solid understanding of fundamental scientific concepts is essential for any aspiring scientist.