Expression for Magnitude of Electric Field by dipole integral

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving an expression for the magnitude of the electric field produced by an electric dipole at a point along the x-axis, using integration. Participants are examining the relationship between the dipole's configuration and the electric field it generates.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion about how to initiate the integration process and which equations to apply. There is a discussion about the cancellation of y-components of the electric field and the relevance of the x-axis in the problem setup. Some participants are questioning the necessity of integration, while others are trying to relate differential electric field components to the dipole moment.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and questioning the appropriateness of the provided diagram. Some guidance has been offered regarding the setup for integration, but no consensus has been reached on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the diagram's relevance to the problem, as well as uncertainty about the necessity of integration in deriving the electric field expression. Participants are also considering the implications of the dipole's charge distribution.

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Homework Statement


Consider the electric dipole seen in the notes. (a) Using integration, derive an expression for the magnitude of the electric field produced by the dipole at any point along the x-axis.

Electric Dipole: http://labman.phys.utk.edu/phys136/modules/m5/images/electr5.gif

Homework Equations


Electric Field Equation, Differential Form $${d \vec E} =\frac 1 {4\pi\epsilon_0} \frac {dq} {r^2} \hat {\mathbf r}$$
Linear Charge Density $$ dq = \lambda dx$$
electric dipole: $$\vec p = q\vec d$$

The Attempt at a Solution


I am completely confused as to how to get started or which equation to integrate to obtain the equation. I am aware that the y-components of the point charges cancel each other out, hence only the charge along the x-axis matters. As well as the general integration needed to be done to obtain the formula.$$\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} F $$ where F is the function to integrate.
 
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The picture you posted doesn't seem to correspond to the problem you are trying to solve. That picture is more inclined for a problem about electric dipole motion under external electric field and has nothing to do with a charged rod. Moreover, where is the mentioned x-axis in that picture?
 
I believe the problem would be attuning to the effects of two point charges creating a dipole along the x-axis, in the picture it would be the E line. I am trying to figure out how to properly set the problem up for integration as I can't seem to figure out how to relate dE and p, so it can be proven with integration all I've been able to find is the derivation using binomial expansion theorems
 
I don't see why there should be integration involved. According to that picture, the only parts of the dipole which is charged are its tips. The connecting rod itself is neutral.
 
Then would there be a scenario for the derivation of the magnitude of the electric field that would require integration?
 

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