How do I determine the energy of a charge at infinity?

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To determine the energy of a charge at infinity when released from a cube configuration of point charges, one should apply the principle of energy conservation. The initial potential energy of the system can be calculated based on the arrangement of the charges, while the final kinetic energy at infinity will be equal to the initial potential energy, as potential energy at infinity is defined as zero. The discussion also touches on the effects of electric fields on dielectric materials, although this is a secondary topic. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem effectively. The key takeaway is that the potential energy at infinity is typically set to zero for simplification.
Rajat jaiswal
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Friends,
I am not being able to solve the following problem i would be grateful if anyone could help me out.
here is the problem:
eight equal point charges each of charge q and mass m are placed at eight corners of a cube of side a.
if keeping all other charges fixed a charge at a single corner is released then find out the speed when it is at infinite distance.
even advices on how to proceed would help.
Thank you.
 
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Your initial configuration is 8 charges assembled at the corners of a cube. Your final configuration is seven charges at the corners of a cube and one charge at infinity with some kinetic energy. Energy conservation says

Kinitial+Uinitial = Kfinal+Ufinal

Replace each of the four symbols above with appropriate expressions.
 
Thanks a lot,
could you please explain me how to find out the energy of the charge at infinity.
Also can anyone explain me the effect of electric field on a dielectric(non- conducting) medium .
 
Rajat jaiswal said:
Thanks a lot,
could you please explain me how to find out the energy of the charge at infinity.

It's usually easiest to define the potential energy at infinity to be zero.
 
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