Equipotential line and electric field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between equipotential lines and electric field vectors in the context of an electric field described by the equation y=2x. Participants are exploring how to determine a suitable electric field strength vector at the point (1,2) based on the perpendicularity condition to the equipotential line.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the concept that the electric field vector must be perpendicular to the equipotential line. There are attempts to identify the slope of the perpendicular line and to evaluate given vector options for their perpendicularity to y=2x. Questions arise about the significance of the specific point (1,2) in this context.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the problem, with some participants suggesting methods to check for perpendicularity by comparing slopes. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being discussed, particularly regarding the implications of the point (1,2) and the nature of the possible electric field vectors.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that there can be multiple electric field vectors satisfying the perpendicularity condition, and they are considering how to validate the options provided in the problem statement.

Saitama
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Homework Statement


The equation of an equipotential line in an electric field is y=2x, then the electric field strength vector at (1,2) may be
a)4i+3j
b)4i+8j
c)8i+4j
d)-8i+4j

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


Since its an equipotential line, the electric field vector should perpendicular to this line. Therefore, the slope of line perpendicular to y=2x is -1/2. The equation should be y=\frac{-1}{2}x+k, where k is any constant. Now i am stuck, can somebody help me proceed in the right direction?
 
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You cannot find the exact vector, as there can be many answers satisfying the given condition. But, you sure can check the options to see which of them would give you a vector perpendicular to y=2x :wink:

I believe the options were specifically made that way so that you can get the answer.
 
Infinitum said:
You cannot find the exact vector, as there can be many answers satisfying the given condition. But, you sure can check the options to see which of them would give you a vector perpendicular to y=2x :wink:

I believe the options were specifically made that way so that you can get the answer.

Yes, many answers are possible.
How can i check that the vector is perpendicular to line y=2x?
 
Pranav-Arora said:
Yes, many answers are possible.
How can i check that the vector is perpendicular to line y=2x?

Check the slopes of the vectors!
 
Infinitum said:
Check the slopes of the vectors!

Lol, then the answer is d), its slope is -1/2.
But then what's the use of (1,2)?

EDIT: Got it why the points are given. :)
 
Last edited:
Pranav-Arora said:
Lol, then the answer is d), its slope is -1/2.
But then what's the use of (1,2)?

EDIT: Got it why the points are given. :)

Good going! :approve:
 

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