Magnitude of Electric field at point P

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the magnitude of the electric field at point P due to a charge of Q=80nC, located 3.0m and 4.0m away from point P. The correct formula for electric field (E) is E=k*Q/R^2, where k is Coulomb's constant. To find the total electric field at point P, one must calculate the electric field contributions from each charge separately and then vectorially add these fields, as they will point in different directions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law and electric fields
  • Familiarity with vector addition of forces
  • Knowledge of the constant k (Coulomb's constant)
  • Basic algebra for calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the formula for electric field: E=k*Q/R^2
  • Study vector addition techniques for combining electric fields
  • Learn about the concept of superposition in electric fields
  • Explore examples of electric field calculations involving multiple charges
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism, as well as educators looking for practical examples of electric field calculations.

sambooby123
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Homework Statement


If Q=80nC, a=3.0m , and b=4.0m in the figure, what is the magnitude of the electric field at point P?

phyprob.jpg



Homework Equations


EF=k*Q1*Q2 / R^2



The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure how to go about solving this problem. Do I use the above equation? I don't have the answer to the problem so I'm kinda in the dark about this. Thanks.

My answer is 46.78
 
Last edited:
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Welcome to PF, Sambooby.
That formula you have is for force. You need to look up the one for electric field. You will have to use it three times to find the E field at P due to each of the charges. These fields will be in different directions, so you will have to add the vectors to find their total.
 

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