Electric Potential From Electric Field

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the point along the x-axis where the electric potential is zero due to two charges, q1 and q2, separated by distance d. It is established that the electric field is zero at x=d/4, leading to the conclusion that the electric potential is also zero at this point. The reasoning is based on the principle that electric potential is a scalar quantity, and when the two charges are equal, the potential at the midpoint between them is zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and potentials
  • Familiarity with the concept of charge and Coulomb's law
  • Knowledge of calculus, specifically integration
  • Ability to interpret vector and scalar quantities in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of electric potential and electric fields in more depth
  • Learn about the superposition principle in electrostatics
  • Explore the mathematical derivation of electric potential from electric fields
  • Investigate scenarios with unequal charges and their effects on electric potential
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in electrostatics, particularly those studying electric fields and potentials in the context of particle interactions.

doubedylan
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Two particles, of charges q1 and q2 are separated by distance d. The net electric field due to the particles is zero @ x=d/4.
With V=0 @ infinity, locate (in terms of d) any point on the x axis (other than infinity) at which the electric potential due to the two particles is zero.


Homework Equations


V=-[tex]\int[/tex][tex]^{f}_{i}[/tex] ([tex]\vec{E}[/tex] [tex]\bullet[/tex] d[tex]\vec{s}[/tex])


The Attempt at a Solution


Seems too obvious to be true, but I think V = 0 @ d/4 since E=0 as well.
Anyone see where else is could be?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Pretend like the two particles are equidistant from the origin, therefore the origin is the middle of the two charges. When finding potential at a point, it is the potential of one charge on the point plus the potential of the other charge on the point. Potential is not a vector, so I believe if the charges are the same, you will find your answer in the middle of the two charges.
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K