How Do I Approach Potential Energy and Electric Fields in Physics?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding potential energy and electric fields in physics, specifically focusing on the mathematical relationships and definitions involved in the context of a function related to potential (V) and its derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to integrate a function related to potential energy but express uncertainty about the definition of the function f(x,y). There are questions about the validity of the derived potential V and its implications for differentiation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the function and its implications. Some guidance has been offered regarding integration, but there is no clear consensus on the definitions or next steps.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be confusion regarding the definition of f(x,y) and its role in the problem, which is impacting the participants' ability to proceed with their calculations.

notojosh
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I've no idea where I need to start. please help me!
 

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Since:

[tex]f(x,y) = (\frac{\partial V}{\partial x}, \frac{\partial V}{\partial y})[/tex]

then:

[tex]dV = dV_x + dV_y = f(x,y) dx + f(x,y) dy[/tex]

Can you integrate to find V?

AM
 
I don't know because f(x,y) is not defined. Can you give me more tips?

Josh
 
notojosh said:
I don't know because f(x,y) is not defined. Can you give me more tips?

Josh

It is not defined? look at your own picture!
 
oops... Ok

I found out V=-tan^(-1)(x/y)+tan^(-1)(y/x)+C where C is arbirary constants.. And..
now what? should I take a differentiate V as the upper equation says so is that basically asking two equations are commute? ...
 

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