Potential difference in a uniform electric field

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the dynamics of an insulating rod with a linear charge density of 40.0 mC/m and a linear mass density of 0.100 kg/m, released in a uniform electric field of 100 V/m. The calculated speed of the rod after traveling 2.00 m is 0.4 m/s. The inquiry into the effects of the rod's orientation relative to the electric field reveals that the motion behaves similarly regardless of the angle, as the force on each differential charge element along the rod remains consistent with the electric field direction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and forces
  • Knowledge of linear charge density and mass density
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Concept of point charges in electric fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of electric field orientation on charged objects
  • Learn about the relationship between electric force and motion
  • Explore the concept of differential charge elements in electric fields
  • Investigate kinematic equations in the context of electric forces
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and kinematics, will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement



An insulating rod having linear
charge density l 5 40.0 mC/m and
linear mass density m 5 0.100 kg/m is
released from rest in a uniform electric
field E 5 100 V/m directed perpendicular
to the rod (Fig. P25.9). (a) Determine
the speed of the rod after it has
traveled 2.00 m. (b) What If? How does
your answer to part (a) change if the
electric field is not perpendicular to the rod? Explain.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I solved part A and got .4 m/s, but I don;t understand conceptually part b. if the rod is not perpendicular to the electric field, why would its motion behave exactly as if it was perpendicular?
 
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Imagine the rod as a stack of point charges along its length. There is dq charge on dL length. What force acts on that charge? What force acts on the rod? Does it depend on the orientation of the rod with respect to the electric field?

ehild
 

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