Find the linear charge density lambda and the radius of a charged semicircle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the linear charge density (λ) and the radius (R) of a charged semicircle, along with the length of a straight wire. The context involves electric fields generated by these charged shapes.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore relationships between the radius and the length of the wire, questioning how these variables interact. There are attempts to derive equations based on given electric field values and to establish a connection between the semicircle and the straight wire.

Discussion Status

Participants have identified relevant equations and are working through the relationships between the variables. Some guidance has been offered regarding the substitution of variables, and there is an acknowledgment of having multiple equations to solve for the unknowns.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of needing a third equation to solve for the unknowns, indicating potential constraints in the problem setup. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the initial approach and the relationships between the variables involved.

Sonic98
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Homework Statement
A uniformly loaded semicircle-shaped wire of radius R has a linear density of charge lambda. An electric field magnitude of 10 N / C is measured at the center of the semi-circle. We straighten this same wire and we note an electric field magnitude of 8 N / C, this time at a distance of 2 m on its perpendicular bisector; the field thus measured is directed towards the wire.

a) Calculate the values of the lambda and R
b) How many electrons would need to be added or removed from the wire in order for it to become neutral? Specify whether to add or remove electrons
c) Calculate the vector electric force on a proton placed at the center of curvature of the wire
when the latter is in the shape of a semicircle
Relevant Equations
At the center of the semi-circle an electric field magnitude of 10 N / C
Straighten wire has an electric field magnitude of 8 N / C
semi-cercle.png


Electric field for the semi-circle

$$E = - \frac {πKλ} {2R} $$

In this case E is equals to 10 N/C

Electric field for the straighten wire

$$E = 2Kλ * ( 1 - \frac {2y} {\sqrt{4y^2 + L^2}})$$

In this case E is equals to 8 N/C

What I'm searching is R, λ, and the length of the wire, so I think I may need a third equation ?

Not sure if I took the right approach for this.

Thank you.
 
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what is the relationship between L and R?
 
L is equal to 2 * π * R ?
 
Sonic98 said:
L is equal to 2 * π * R ?
Right, so substituting that you have two equations and two unknowns, yes?
 
That's right, so I can do:

$$E = - \frac {πKλ} {2R} $$

$$E = 2Kλ * ( 1 - \frac {2y} {\sqrt{4y^2 + L^2}})$$

$$ L = 2 * π * R $$

Which should give me: R = 1.18962 L = 7.4746 Lambda: 8.41483E-10

Now I can pass to the next questions. Thank you :) !
 

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