Linear Charge Density (Question on the problem)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the linear charge density of a circular arc with a charge of -310e distributed along it. The charge is converted to coulombs as -4.96E-17 C. The arc subtends an angle of 43°, which is crucial for determining the length of the arc. The linear charge density is calculated using the formula Density = Charge/Length, where the length must be derived from the radius and the subtended angle.

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  • Knowledge of charge conversion from elementary charge to coulombs
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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exitwound
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Homework Statement



A charge of -310e is uniformly distributed along a circular arc of radius 4.15 cm, which subtends an angle of 43°. What is the linear charge density along the arc in C/m?

Homework Equations



Density = Charge/length

The Attempt at a Solution



Charge = -310(1.6E-19) = -4.96E-17 C

Length = ??

This is because I don't know what "subtends an angle of 43" means. Does it mean the circular arc is 43/360 degrees of a circle?
 
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exitwound said:
This is because I don't know what "subtends an angle of 43" means. Does it mean the circular arc is 43/360 degrees of a circle?
Yes, that's exactly what it means.
 
Okay, thanks!
 

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