Electric Potential: x,y,z Components & Zero Points

[sbe07phy]

Homework Statement

a) In a certain region of space, the electric potential is V(x,y,z) = Axy - Bx^5 + Cy where A, B, and C are positive constants. Calculate the x, y , and z components of the electric field. Use A, B, C, x, y, and z as necessary
b) At which points is the electric field equal to zero.

Any help?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[genneth]

What can't you do? It's hard to help if you don't say what's actually holding you back. Do you know how to calculate the electric field from the potential?

 

[sbe07phy]

How to get started. Do I just solve for each variable with that equation?

 

[genneth]

The equation for getting the electric field from the potential is \mathbf{E} = \boldsymbol{\nabla}V. Did you already know that?

 

[jlucas134]

Allow me to expand on what genneth started..

he is correct...E= - Del V
where del is the gradiate operator.
You have V in cartesian.

so del V = x(hat)*dV/dx+y(hat)*dV/dy+z(hat)*dV/dz
You textbook should give the relationship for del V, don't forget the negative sign.

So take the derivate of V with respect to x, then repeat for y and z.

This should get you going. If I am wrong, I apologize, but that is how I did a similar problem in my homework.