Position Varying Electric Potential

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating electric potential and electric field components using the equation V = (5)(92)(7) - (9)(9)(6) - (9)(72), resulting in a potential of 1908 V. The user expresses confusion regarding the direction of the electric field and the application of vector components. The solution involves utilizing the gradient of the potential, specifically applying the formula \vec{E} = -\vec{\nabla} V, to derive the electric field direction. The user successfully resolves their confusion by recognizing the need to take derivatives with respect to the relevant components.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and electric field concepts
  • Familiarity with vector calculus and gradient operations
  • Knowledge of basic physics equations related to electromagnetism
  • Experience with derivative calculations in multiple dimensions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the gradient operator in electromagnetism
  • Learn about electric field visualization techniques using vector fields
  • Explore advanced topics in electrostatics, including potential energy
  • Review examples of electric potential calculations in complex systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, electrical engineering, and anyone involved in the study of electromagnetism and electric fields.

Refrost
Messages
3
Reaction score
0
http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/3786/66134795.png

Part one was simple enough, just insert the variables in the equation given

V = (5)(92)(7) - (9)(9)(6) - (9)(72) = 1908 V

Part two, three and four is where I am getting confused.

Usually I would use triangles to figure out components but I am unable to figure out the direction of the field just based on the information given.

I'm not sure if I am thinking about this the wrong way or if I am misunderstanding some of the information given. Any thoughts that could get me thinking in the right direction would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Use

[tex]\vec{E}=- \vec{\nabla} V[/tex]
 
Thanks for the quick response. I got it.

Just take the derivative with respect to the component you you're looking for and change the +/- sign.

Thanks!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K