Finding E Field at Point from non uniform charge density

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the electric field at a point in free space due to a non-uniform charge density along a portion of the z-axis. The charge density is given as 10|z| (nC/m), and the point of interest is located at P(0,0,4).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the expression for the vector R and its dependence on the z-coordinate, questioning whether it should be the same for positive and negative values of z. There is an exploration of how to set up the integration for the electric field calculation.

Discussion Status

The discussion has seen participants questioning the setup of the problem, particularly the expression for R. Some guidance has been offered regarding the evaluation of R for different values of z, and there is an acknowledgment of the need to differentiate between the absolute value of z in the charge density and the position vector.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the implications of the non-uniform charge density and the integration limits based on the defined region of charge along the z-axis. There is an emphasis on correctly interpreting the vector relationships in the context of the problem.

fmpak93
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1. Portion of z-axis for which |z| < 2 carries a non uniform charge density of 10|z| (nC/m). Using cylindrical coordinates, determine E in free space at P(0,0,4). Explicitly show your integration.

Homework Equations


E = (1/4πε0) ∫ dQ*aR/(R2)

The Attempt at a Solution


https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t34.0-12/11004892_945246908827650_417954135_n.jpg?oh=d538ef93ebc53d426c29d8a2f0116327&oe=54ECD699&__gda__=1424795396_496617364f01c6d9bac875a291ef70af
I don't know what I'm doing wrong. the linear charge lies on the z axis and the point of interest lies on (0,0,4) so only the z unit vector applies right? As shown in the paper, the real answer is E = 34.20 az (V/m).
I
 
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Welcome to PF!

Everything looks good except for your expression for ##\vec{R}##. Try evaluating your expression for z = +2 and z = -2. Does it make sense?
 
TSny said:
Welcome to PF!

Everything looks good except for your expression for ##\vec{R}##. Try evaluating your expression for z = +2 and z = -2. Does it make sense?

I would assume the R vector we can find as the difference in points between the source and destination. So our destination point is P(0,0,4), and our source charge point would have to be (0,0,|z|). Thus making our vector R = (4-|z|)az. Is this correct?
 
fmpak93 said:
Thus making our vector R = (4-|z|)az. Is this correct?

No. Should R be the same for z = +2 and z = -2?
 
TSny said:
No. Should R be the same for z = +2 and z = -2?

Oh I see, it shouldn't. The absolute factor only applies to the charge density, the length of the position vector will still vary from top to bottom like always. So then just R = (4-z)?
 
TSny said:
No. Should R be the same for z = +2 and z = -2?

Never-mind, you were right. I got the answer. THANKS! :)
 

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