Find the flux passing through the plane

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    Flux Plane
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the electric flux through a plane due to a linear charge distribution located in the y-z plane. The charge density is given, and the setup specifies the dimensions of the plane in the x-direction and the infinite extent in the y-direction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Gauss's Law and the appropriate method for calculating the electric displacement field (D) for a finite wire. There are questions about the assumptions made regarding the area of the plane and whether integration is necessary.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have provided insights into the limitations of using Gauss's Law for this scenario, while others are questioning the validity of the original approach and suggesting the need for integration to account for the finite length of the wire.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the application of formulas for electric fields and flux, particularly in relation to finite versus infinite charge distributions. Participants are also considering the implications of charge calculations based on the linear charge density.

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Homework Statement


A linear charge pl=2.0microC/m lies on the y-z plane.from[0 -1 1] to [0 1 1]. Find the flux passing through the plane extending from 0 to 1.0m in the x-dir and -infinity to +infinity in the y direction.
***i wrote this in MATLAB and got 0.5micro as answer***

Homework Equations


Q = gauss law.
where D = pl/(2*pi*rho) , rho (distance from line to sheet).

The Attempt at a Solution


I found D = 0.32 micro C/m^2. But how do i consider the area so that i can multiply with D to get the flux ( i am assuming no integration required in this case becase the flux is perpendicular to the sheet..
Any help would be appreciated...
 
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This is a harder problem than you think.
The D field from a finite length wilre has to be used,
not the formula you have for D.
You can't use Gauss.
 
i thought i need to use Gauss' Law[(integral)D.ds] to find the flux through the entire surface.Then for finding the D for the finite wire what do i do? i am confused..
 
I saw in the textbook the charge on the line can be also calculated as pL*L which gives me 4 micro C.But i don't if i use this inorder to solve the problem or not..
 
You have to integrate Coulomb's law for a finite length.
It is like the integral for an infinite length, but with finite limits.
 
Last edited:

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