Find electric Field at a point A

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric field at a specific point, referred to as point A, using contributions from two different charges. The subject area is electric fields and vector quantities in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the net electric field by summing the contributions from two charges but questions the discrepancy between their result and the provided answer key. Some participants emphasize the vector nature of electric fields and inquire about the correct method for combining these vectors.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different methods for calculating the net electric field, with some guidance provided on treating electric fields as vectors. There is acknowledgment of a typographical error in one of the equations, but the discussion remains open regarding the correct approach and calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a key answer that differs from the original poster's calculations, indicating potential misunderstandings or miscalculations. The discussion also hints at applying similar methods to different points in future problems.

FJay
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Moved from a technical forum, so homework template missing
EF_zpstnbig8yt.png


Hi Guys,
I've been learning electric field, and i want to ask about this question.EF net = EF1 + EF2

my EF1 = 9 x 109 * 4 x 10-8 / (0.6)2 = 1 x 103 (From Q1)
EF2 = 9 x 109 * 2 x 10-8 / (0.3)2 = 2 x 103 (From Q2)

then EFnet = (2+1) x 103 = 3 x 103

and what i get from key answer is 2.2 x 103

and anyone can tell me what i miss ?
 
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The electric field is a vector quantity. What is its (vector) value at A?
 
DrClaude said:
The electric field is a vector quantity. What is its (vector) value at A?

EF1_zpsjbw15xo9.png


Enet = (E12 + E22)1/2

Enet = 2.23 x 103

do you mean like that bro ? anything wrong from my answer ?

then for another question like this( at different point), just do this step ?
 
FJay said:
Enet = (E1E22 + E22)1/2

Enet = 2.23 x 103
There is a typo in the first equation, but otherwise this is correct.

FJay said:
then for another question like this( at different point), just do this step ?
Yes. You first calculate the electric field itself, as a vector, and then calculate the magnitude of the vector to get the magnitude of the field.
 
DrClaude said:
Yes. You first calculate the electric field itself, as a vector, and then calculate the magnitude of the vector to get the magnitude of the field.
Thank you for your help.
 

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