How to Prove Electric Potential Formula for a Charged Disc?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving the electric potential formula for a charged disc with uniform charge density, specifically V=2kpisigma(sqrt{x^2+r^2}-x). The user attempts to simplify the formula for large x compared to r, leading to V=kQ/x. Key steps include multiplying by a fraction to manipulate the equation and integrating the potential contributions from differential rings of charge. The solution requires understanding the potential due to a ring and performing integration from r=0 to R.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and charge density concepts
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically integration techniques
  • Knowledge of the electric potential due to a ring of charge
  • Proficiency in manipulating algebraic expressions involving square roots
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric potential from a charged ring
  • Learn about surface charge density and its implications in electrostatics
  • Explore integration techniques for calculating electric fields and potentials
  • Investigate the behavior of electric potential at large distances from charged objects
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Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in electrostatic potential calculations for charged objects.

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Homework Statement



I need to prove that the formula for electric potential (V) of a charged disc (with radius r) and with a uniform charge density, that
V=2kpisigma\(sqrt{x^2+r^2}-x)

when x is very large compared to r, and Q is the total charge of the disk, that this formula reduces to V=kQ/x

Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



I tried multiplying by a fraction of (sqrt{x^2+r^2}+x) as both numer and denom, and worked through it to get V=2kpisigma(4xsqrt{x^2+r^2})/(sqrt{x^2+r^2}+x)

Here I assumed that all under the square root was approaching x, so simplified as

V=kpisigma4x^2/x

But now I don't know if I've been doing this right..
 
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Take a differential ring in the charged plate, with a radius say 'r' and thickness say 'dr', then what charge does it posses?
Assuming the surface charge density to be sigma, you can find the charge covered by the differential ring. Now you must know the formula for the potential at a point due to a ring (on the axis). If you know that, then you can find the potential at the required point (at a distance 'x' as per your question) due to the differential ring. It will be only in terms of a single differential, 'dr'. Just integrate it from r=0 to r=R (where i am assuming R to be the radius of the plate), you will have the required expression!
 

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