SUMMARY
The electric field strength across a membrane with a voltage of 78.7 mV and a thickness of 8.52 nm is calculated using the formula E = V/d. The correct calculation yields an electric field strength of approximately 9,237,089 V/m. The confusion arose from an initial miscalculation of voltage and misunderstanding of the sign convention in electric field equations. The electric field is typically expressed as a positive value, representing the direction of force on a positive charge.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of electric field concepts
- Familiarity with voltage and its units (volts)
- Knowledge of unit analysis in physics
- Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
- Study the concept of electric fields in physics
- Learn about unit analysis and dimensional consistency
- Explore the implications of sign conventions in electric field calculations
- Review the relationship between voltage, electric field strength, and distance
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to electric fields and voltage calculations.