Find electric field a distance P from a charged rod

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric field at a point P from a charged vertical rod. The parameters include the length of the rod, total charge, and the distance from the end of the rod to point P.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the electric field using the formula kq/r^2 and raise questions about the accuracy of their results, particularly regarding significant figures and rounding.

Discussion Status

Some participants express frustration over scoring and the correctness of their calculations, while others indicate that they have resolved their issues with rounding. There is ongoing exploration of the y component of the electric field.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may affect how they approach the problem and the precision of their answers.

isukatphysics69
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Homework Statement


The figure below shows a thin, vertical rod of length L with total charge Q. The indicated point P is a horizontal distance x from the one end of the rod. What is the electric field at point P. Express your answer in component notation in the two blanks below.

L = 5.0 cm, Q = 3.0 nC, and x = 3.0 cm.
physs2.jpg


Homework Equations


kq/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


theta = arctan(5/3) = 59 deg
total charge = [(8.99x10^9)(3x10^-9)]/((0.03)^2) = 29966
x component = 29966cos59=15417

1.8/2 points
 

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Nevermind I just forgot to square the distance lol
 
Why am I only getting 1.8/2 points for 15417N/C? is something incorrect?
 
this is so frustrating what is the sig figs ??
 
LOL IT WAS ROUNDED DOWN TO 15000
 
isukatphysics69 said:
LOL IT WAS ROUNDED DOWN TO 15000
So you're good now? :smile:
 
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berkeman said:
So you're good now? :smile:
yes please see other thread I am stuck again on y component
 
isukatphysics69 said:

Homework Statement


The figure below shows a thin, vertical rod of length L with total charge Q. The indicated point P is a horizontal distance x from the one end of the rod. What is the electric field at point P. Express your answer in component notation in the two blanks below.

L = 5.0 cm, Q = 3.0 nC, and x = 3.0 cm.View attachment 230884

Homework Equations


kq/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


theta = arctan(5/3) = 59 deg
total charge = [(8.99x10^9)(3x10^-9)]/((0.03)^2) = 29966
x component = 29966cos59=15417

1.8/2 points
This working of this problem is incorrect.
 

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