How Do You Calculate Electric Potential at Point P from a Uniformly Charged Rod?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the electric potential at point P from a uniformly charged rod, start by determining the potential contribution from each infinitesimal segment of the rod, denoted as dL. The expression for the potential due to dL involves the linear charge density (lambda) and the distance from the segment to point P. Integrate these contributions along the length of the rod to find the total electric potential at point P. Utilizing calculus is essential for summing the contributions effectively. This method provides a systematic approach to solving the problem.
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The thin, uniformly charged rod shown in the figure has a linear charge density . Find an expression for the electric potential at P. (Use k_e for ke, lambda for , a, b, and L as necessary.)

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I'm not sure how to tackle this problem, if anyone could come up with the expression so that I have an answer to work towards to, it'd be greatly appreciated.
 
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Do you know calculus?

Find an expression for the potential caused by each "infinitesimal" length dL, and then sum them with an integral.

- Warren
 

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