Integrating to find the electric field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on integrating to find the electric field above a uniformly charged insulated board measuring 12m x 4m with charge density σ. The participant attempts to apply the equation \(\vec{E}=\int\frac{kdq}{r^{2}}\hat{r}\) and expresses confusion regarding the integration process, particularly whether a double integral is necessary. Clarifications indicate that the symmetry of the problem allows for a single integral approach, and the charge element dq is correctly identified as σdy, although the participant initially considers dq as σdxdy. The need for a proper setup of the integral is emphasized for accurate calculation of the electric field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and charge density
  • Familiarity with integration techniques in physics
  • Knowledge of the principle of superposition in electrostatics
  • Basic concepts of symmetry in electric field calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric fields from continuous charge distributions
  • Learn about the application of double integrals in electrostatics
  • Explore the concept of symmetry in electric field problems
  • Review the use of the equation \(\vec{E}=\int\frac{kdq}{r^{2}}\hat{r}\) in various scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, particularly those tackling problems involving electric fields from continuous charge distributions, as well as educators seeking to clarify integration techniques in physics.

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Homework Statement



The picture attached shows an insulated board (12m x 4m) with uniform charge density σ. Integrate to find the electric field 8 cm above the center of the board.

Homework Equations


I found the equations \vec{E}=\int\frac{kdq}{r^{2}}\hat{r} and dq=σdy (both from google)

The Attempt at a Solution


We've never integrated to find anything in this class before so forgive my crude attempt...
I ended up with k\int^{10}_{6}\frac{σdy}{y^{2}}(-\hat{j})

I didn't put anything relating to the width of the board because I'm assuming its part of the density, with σ=Q/V=Q/48m2

Any help would be VERY much appreciated
 

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Don't you need a double integral? Also won't dq = σdxdy?
 
Sorry, I should've mentioned that my prof. says that the "symmetry of the situation means only one is needed." As far as if dq=σdxdy, I'm assuming it's just σdy since it's only supposed to be a single integral, but in all honesty, I have no idea. Maybe the other integral isn't needed since we already know the area of the board...?

This is my first time setting up an integral for an electric field, and the only equation I have is the one above, though looking at it now, it looks like it's an equation for a one-dimensional object.

I think I'm more confused now.
 
If you knew the electric field due to a line of charge then you could turn this into a one dimensional integral. σ is charge per area so you need to multiply by an area, dxdy, to get charge. I might be missing something here, hopefully others will reply.
 

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