Finding net electric potential, i got it set up right, but somthing is f'ed up

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the net electric potential at point P due to four point charges, with the user initially obtaining incorrect results. The user correctly identifies the formula for electric potential but mistakenly uses the wrong value for charge, confusing femtoCoulombs (fC) with its scientific notation. After clarification that 5.50 fC equals 5.50 x 10^-15 C, the user is advised to adjust their calculations accordingly. Despite this correction, the user finds that the net potential remains zero due to the equal and opposite charges. The conversation highlights the importance of accurate unit conversion in electric potential calculations.
mr_coffee
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Hello everyone I think i set this up properly but the answer is still wrong. I tried 2 different ways, both wrong.
In Figure 24-33, what is the net electric potential at point P due to the four particles, if V = 0 at infinity, q = 5.50 fC, and d = 3.00 cm? Figure 24-33
I used potential due to a group of point charges. V = The sum of all the point charges.
V = 1/(4pi*Eo)(q1/r + q2/r + q3/r + q4/r);
V = 1/(4pi*Eo)(5.50/.03 + 5.50/.03 + 5.50/.03 + 5.50/.03);
V = 6.59x10^12 V;
Which was wrong so i noticed that 2 of the charges q, where negative, so I tried:
V = 1/(4pi*Eo)(5.50/.03 + 5.50/.03 + (-5.50/.03) + (-5.50/.03));
V = 0 V; Wrong again.
What am I doing wrong? Is it because q = 5.50 fC? I have no idea what f stands for? is it 10^-15 or what? :bugeye:
 
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The f in 5.50 fC stands for femto, which means 10^-15. Therefore, q = 5.50 x 10^-15 C. With this correction, your equation should be:V = 1/(4pi*Eo)(5.50 x 10^-15/.03 + 5.50 x 10^-15/.03 + (-5.50 x 10^-15/.03) + (-5.50 x 10^-15/.03));V = 0 V
 
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