Finding E-field at a point away from a line charge

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field (E-field) components at a point P located on the positive y-axis, due to a line charge with a uniform linear charge density (Lambda) extending from -∞ to 0 along the x-axis. The participant successfully calculated the Y-component of the E-field as Ey = (Q/L)/(4ε0a). It was confirmed that there is indeed an X-component of the E-field at point P, despite its position on the Y-axis, which requires careful consideration of the limits of integration in the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and charge distributions
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically integration techniques
  • Knowledge of Coulomb's law and the concept of linear charge density
  • Proficiency in vector analysis, particularly in resolving components
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric fields from continuous charge distributions
  • Learn about the method of integration for calculating electric fields
  • Explore the concept of symmetry in electric field calculations
  • Investigate the effects of varying charge densities on electric field components
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Students in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, as well as educators and anyone involved in teaching or learning about electric fields and charge distributions.

Geophyx
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Homework Statement


A line charge with a uniform linear charge density Lambda lies along the x-axis and extends from -∞ to 0. Determine the X-component, and Y-component of the E-field at a point P, a distance 'a' from the origin on the positive y-axis.

Homework Equations


dE= (k*dq/r^2)* r(hat)

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm getting tripped up on the limits of integration. Is there an x-component of the E-field at point P, even though the point lies on the Y-axis? I was able to calculate the Y-component and got Ey= (Q/L)/(4ε0a)
 
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Geophyx said:

Homework Statement


A line charge with a uniform linear charge density Lambda lies along the x-axis and extends from -∞ to 0. Determine the X-component, and Y-component of the E-field at a point P, a distance 'a' from the origin on the positive y-axis.

Homework Equations


dE= (k*dq/r^2)* r(hat)

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm getting tripped up on the limits of integration. Is there an x-component of the E-field at point P, even though the point lies on the Y-axis? I was able to calculate the Y-component and got Ey= (Q/L)/(4ε0a)
Yes, there is an x-component.
 

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