Electrical Potential at point Y between 2 point charges

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the electric potential at point Y between two point charges: +1.5 x 10–2 C and –2.7 x 10–5 C, which are 20.0 cm apart. The electric field at point Y is determined to be 5.4 x 1010 N/C. The electric potential is calculated using the formula V = kq/d, resulting in a total potential of 2.7 x 109 V after considering contributions from both charges. The calculations provided are confirmed to be accurate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law
  • Familiarity with electric field and electric potential concepts
  • Knowledge of the formula V = kq/d
  • Ability to perform calculations involving scientific notation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Coulomb's Law
  • Learn about electric field lines and their significance
  • Explore the concept of superposition in electric fields and potentials
  • Investigate the relationship between electric potential and electric field strength
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of electric fields and potentials in electrostatics.

BN Joe
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Homework Statement



Two charges, one of charge +1.5 x 10^–2 C and the other of charge –2.7 x 10^5 C, are 20.0 cm apart. The positive charge is to the left of the negative charge.
(a)Draw a diagram showing the point charges and label a point Y that is 5.0 cm away from the positive charge, on the line connecting the charge and between the two charges. (Field lines need not be drawn.)
(b)Calculate the electric field at point Y.
(c)Calculate the electric potential at point Y

q1 = 1.5 x 10^-2 C
q2 = -2.7 x 10^-5 C
d = 0.2m
k = 9 x 10^9

Homework Equations



Not sure... possibly
v = kq1 / d

The Attempt at a Solution



I had no issues with parts a and b, but I am not sure of the correct formula to solve part c and the answer I got doesn't seem to make sense.
If it helps the electric field at point y is 5.4 x 10^10 N/C

V = kq1 / d
v1 = (9 x 10^9)(1.5 x 10^-2C) / 0.05m
= 2.7 x 10^9
v2 = (9 x 10^9)(-2.7 x 10^-5C) / 0.15m
= -1.62 x 10^6
Vtotal = v1 + v2
= 2.7 x 10^9 V
 
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BN Joe said:

Homework Statement



Two charges, one of charge +1.5 x 10^–2 C and the other of charge –2.7 x 10^5 C, are 20.0 cm apart. The positive charge is to the left of the negative charge.
(a)Draw a diagram showing the point charges and label a point Y that is 5.0 cm away from the positive charge, on the line connecting the charge and between the two charges. (Field lines need not be drawn.)
(b)Calculate the electric field at point Y.
(c)Calculate the electric potential at point Y

q1 = 1.5 x 10^-2 C
q2 = -2.7 x 10^-5 C
d = 0.2m
k = 9 x 10^9

Homework Equations



Not sure... possibly
v = kq1 / d

The Attempt at a Solution



I had no issues with parts a and b, but I am not sure of the correct formula to solve part c and the answer I got doesn't seem to make sense.
If it helps the electric field at point y is 5.4 x 10^10 N/C

V = kq1 / d
v1 = (9 x 10^9)(1.5 x 10^-2C) / 0.05m
= 2.7 x 10^9
v2 = (9 x 10^9)(-2.7 x 10^-5C) / 0.15m
= -1.62 x 10^6
Vtotal = v1 + v2
= 2.7 x 10^9 V

Your calculations look fine.
 

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