How to Calculate Flux through a Square Plate at an Inclined Angle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric flux through a square plate with an area of 1 m² that is inclined at an angle of 30 degrees to an electric field of strength 100 N/C.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the flux formula, questioning the angle used in the cosine function. There is an exploration of whether to use the angle of inclination directly or its complement.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations using different angles and have noted discrepancies in their results. There is an ongoing examination of the correct trigonometric values and whether the calculator settings (degrees vs. radians) might affect the outcomes.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of angle measurement and the correct application of trigonometric functions in the context of the problem. There is a mention of specific values for sine and cosine at common angles, which may influence their calculations.

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Homework Statement



The flux through a square plate, area 1 m^2, inclined at at an angle of 30 degrees to a field of strength of 100 N/C is

------\------->
-------\------->
--------\------->
---------\------->


Homework Equations



Flux=EACos(degree)


The Attempt at a Solution



= (100 N/C) (1m^2) Cos (60)
95 Nm^2/C (not one of the options)
 
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Cos 30 = .866
 
LowlyPion said:
Cos 30 = .866

LowlyPion said:
Cos 30 = .866

O.k so i wouldn't do the angle perpendicular? So i put in cos (30)

30 \
--------\---------->
---------\---------->
----------\---------->
-----------\---------->

sorry don't know if the 30 degrees being there matters. When i put in the cos (30) i didn't get that ( does my calculator need to be in degrees ? ) O.k Thanx for any help. Also once i put the 100 N/C * 1m^2* Cos(30) i get 86.6 which is one of the options . Thank you
 
Degrees, not radians.

You can always figure the correct values for 30 degrees and 45.

A 45 degree angle means the sides are equal and hence sin or cos by Pythagoras of 45 is √2/2

For 30 degrees, sin 30 is 1/2 (the side opposite is 1/2 the hypotenuse) and hence the cos 30 must be √3/2.
 

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