Electric Potential V(x,y,z): Sketch Electric Field Lines

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the electric field using given equations and sketching the electric field lines in the x-z plane. Tips for sketching the lines include starting at "obvious" points and paths, such as z=0 and considering the behavior of the field as z approaches positive or negative infinity.
  • #1
Fabio010
85
0
V(x,y,z) = (Vo).e^[(-k|z|)].cos(kx)

Find the electric field everywhere. Sketch the electric field lines in the x − z plane. Attempt:

∂V/∂x = -Ex

-Ex = -k(Vo).e^[(-k|z|)].sin(kx) Ex = k(Vo).e^[(-k|z|)].sin(kx)

---------------------------------------------
-Ez = -(Vo).k.e^[(-k|z|)].cos(kx) if z >=0

Ez = (Vo).k.e^[(-k|z|)].[cos(kx)] if z >=0

--------------------------------------------
-Ez = +(Vo).e^[(-k|z|)].cos(kx) if z<0

Ez =(Vo).e^[(-k|z|)].[-cos(kx)]My problem is sketching the electric field lines. Any tips?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Your derivatives are wrong.
You're missing a factor of k in the x term. You don't use the product rule in z.
 
  • #3
I was confounding z with k that's why i used the product rule :)

But even with that equations i don't now how to sketch the lines :/
 
Last edited:
  • #4
As for plotting, try starting at any "obvious" points and paths. For example z=0, x=±nπ/2.
 
  • #5
Also consider how the field behaves as z→±∞
 

Related to Electric Potential V(x,y,z): Sketch Electric Field Lines

1. What is electric potential?

Electric potential is a measure of the amount of potential energy that an electric charge has at a certain point in space. It is measured in volts (V).

2. How is electric potential related to electric field?

Electric potential and electric field are related through the equation V = -∫E•ds, where V is the potential, E is the electric field, and ds is an infinitesimal displacement vector. In other words, the electric field is the negative gradient of the electric potential.

3. How do you sketch electric field lines?

To sketch electric field lines, first determine the direction of the electric field at various points in space. Then, draw lines that are tangent to the electric field vectors at those points. The density of the lines represents the strength of the electric field.

4. What does the shape of electric field lines tell us about the electric potential?

The shape of electric field lines can tell us about the direction and strength of the electric potential. If the field lines are close together, it indicates a strong electric field and a steep change in potential. If the field lines are far apart, it indicates a weaker electric field and a slower change in potential.

5. Can electric field lines intersect?

No, electric field lines cannot intersect. This is because the direction of the electric field at any point along a field line is uniquely determined by the direction of the field line itself. If two field lines were to intersect, it would indicate that the electric field has two different directions at that point, which is not possible.

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