How Do You Calculate the Electric Potential at Point X Relative to Point Y?

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To calculate the electric potential at point X relative to point Y, the formula V = kQ/d is used, where V is the potential, k is Coulomb's constant, Q is the charge, and d is the distance from the charge. The potential at point X is determined to be 1.7 X 10^3 V based on its distance from the charge. To find the potential difference between points X and Y, the potentials can be treated as scalars and simply added or subtracted. The concept emphasizes that electric potentials are independent of the path taken. Understanding this principle allows for straightforward calculations of potential differences in electrostatics.
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Homework Statement


Point X is 0.25m away from a point charge of +4.7 X 10-8C, point Y is 0.65m away. What is the potential of point X with respect to point Y?


Homework Equations


V= kQ/d


The Attempt at a Solution


I was able to find the potential of X using V=kQ/d with respect to the point charge, which equals 1.7 X 103 V, but I'm not sure as to how to find it with respect to the Y point.
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi phm! Welcome to PF! :smile:
phm said:
… I was able to find the potential of X using V=kQ/d with respect to the point charge, which equals 1.7 X 103 V, but I'm not sure as to how to find it with respect to the Y point.

The whole point of having potentials is that they don't depend on path (so they are only defined for conservative forces) …

so the potentials just add and subtract as ordinary scalars (ordinary numbers) …

just like gravitational potential energy! :wink:
 
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