How to find potential over a line charge

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the electric potential along the z-axis due to a uniform line charge extending from -L to L along the x-axis. Participants are tasked with using a given electric field value to verify their calculations through line integrals.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various integration techniques, including substitutions and the use of trigonometric identities. There are questions about the correctness of integration results and the handling of logarithmic expressions.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on integration techniques and algebraic manipulation. There is ongoing exploration of the relationship between the two parts of the problem, with participants checking their work and questioning their assumptions about limits and units.

Contextual Notes

Participants note issues with unit consistency in their calculations and the need for careful handling of logarithmic properties. There is mention of homework constraints that may affect the approach taken.

  • #31
Yup, that's right. If you rationalize the denominator in your first result, you can turn it into your second result.
 
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  • #32
Oh ok well I will check that later and take your word on it for tonight. Thank you so much for your help on this problem.
 
  • #33
I tried to plug in values to see if my two answers were equivalent, and it wasn't working out. Maybe it's just because I am tired, but I just thought I would let you know. Thanks again.
 

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