Force on a charge obtained from electric potential

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SUMMARY

The electric potential along the x-axis is defined by the equation V = 111x³ - 517x - 258. To find the force on a -444 μC point charge at x = 0.565 m, the electric field E is calculated using the derivative of the potential, yielding E = -668.7 N/C. The force F is then computed using F = qE, resulting in approximately 0.297 N. The initial calculation was incorrect due to a misunderstanding of the derivative of the constant term 258, which is zero.

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Alan I
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Homework Statement

In a certain region of space, the electric potential along the x-axis is given by:

V = 111x3 - 517x - 258 where V is in Volts and x is in meters.

Find the force F (magnitude in N and direction) felt by a -444 μC point charge at point (56.5 cm,0). (For direction, all you need is the sign.)

Homework Equations


E=dV/dx
F=qE

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
dV/dx=d/dx(111x3-517x-258=333x2-517-258=E

⇒ E(0.565m)=-668.7 N/C

⇒F=qE=(-444*10-6)*(-668.7)≅0.297

The answer turned out to be wrong so if someone can give me a hint towards where my mistakes are I would greatly appreciate it!
 
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What is the derivative of 258 with respect to x?
 
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Likes   Reactions: Alan I
Orodruin said:
What is the derivative of 258 with respect to x?

Thanks!
 

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