Finding magnitude of electrical field at specific point

In summary, to find the magnitude of the electric field at point (p) shown in the figure, we first calculate the individual electric fields at points r1 and r2 using the equation E1 = k*q1 / r^2. Plugging in the given values, we get E1 = 1492068.776 N/C and E2 = 860012.75521 N/C. Since the electric fields of q1 and q2 add up, we get a total electric field of 2350701.531 N/C at point (p).
  • #1
plshlp1224
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Homework Statement


[/B]
Two point-like charges are placed as shown in the figure, r1 = 28.0 cm and r2 = 56.0 cm. Find the magnitude of the electric field at point (p) shown in the figure. Let q1 = −13.0 µC, q2 = +30.0 µC.
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Homework Equations


[/B]
E1 = k*q1 / r^2


3. The Attempt at a Solution


The electrical field at the two points are the sum of the two electric fields of q1 and q2.

E = E1 + E2

The equation for E1 is:

E1 = k*q1 / r^2

Plugging in the known quantities:

E1 = 8.99x10^9 *13 x10^-6 / 0.28^2

So E1 equals

E1 = 1492068.776 N/C

The same process goes for E2:

E2 = 8.99x10^9 * 30 x10^-6 / 0.56^2

So E2 equals:

E2 = 860012.75521 N/C

Now adding up E1 and E1 we get:

E = (1492.34 + 860.96) x10^3

E = 2350701.531 N/C

I am not sure if my reasoning is correct, if anyone can help it'll be much appreciated, thank you!
 
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  • #2
It is not clear from your reasoning whether or not you got the correct årocedure by luck or not. Generally, you should argue whether the fields interfere constructively or destructively, i.e., in which direction does the field from each charge point?
 

FAQ: Finding magnitude of electrical field at specific point

1. How is the magnitude of an electrical field determined?

The magnitude of an electrical field can be determined by dividing the force experienced by a test charge placed in the field by the value of the test charge. It is represented by the formula E = F/Q, where E is the magnitude of the field, F is the force, and Q is the test charge.

2. What is the unit of measurement for the magnitude of an electrical field?

The unit of measurement for the magnitude of an electrical field is newtons per coulomb (N/C) in the SI system. In other systems, it can also be expressed as volts per meter (V/m) or electric field units (efu).

3. Can the magnitude of an electrical field be negative?

Yes, the magnitude of an electrical field can be negative. This indicates the direction of the field is opposite to that of a positive test charge. A negative field can be caused by a negative source charge or by the field being directed towards a negative charge.

4. How does distance affect the magnitude of an electrical field?

The magnitude of an electrical field decreases as the distance from the source charge increases. This can be described by the inverse-square law, which states that the magnitude of the field is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source charge.

5. What factors can affect the magnitude of an electrical field at a specific point?

The magnitude of an electrical field at a specific point can be affected by the magnitude and location of the source charge, the distance from the source charge, and any intervening materials or objects that may alter the field. The type of source charge (positive or negative) and the presence of other charges in the vicinity can also impact the magnitude of the field.

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