Find the change in electric potential energy

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the change in electric potential energy for a +12.5 µC charge moved in a uniform electric field of 6890 N/C. The formula used is U = qEd, where q is the charge, E is the electric field strength, and d is the distance moved. Initially, the user incorrectly calculated the distance in millimeters instead of meters, leading to an incorrect answer. After correcting the distance to 5.87 cm (0.0587 m), the user successfully arrived at the correct potential energy change. The conversation highlights the importance of unit conversion in physics calculations.
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Homework Statement



A uniform electric field with a magnitude of 6890 N/C points in the positive x-direction. Find the change in electric potential energy when a +12.5 µC charge is moved 5.87 cm in the following directions.

In the positive x-direction
In the negative x-direction

Homework Equations



U = qEd, right?

The Attempt at a Solution



U = (12.5 x10^-6)(6890)(0.00587) = .00050555 J or .50555 mJ

But that isn't correct, please help ;)
 
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Check the d value.
 
Whoops, thank you. I accidentally had millimeters

Got the right answer now ;)
 

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