Potential difference, uniform electric field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the potential difference between two points A and B in a uniform electric field. The correct formula for potential difference is ΔV = Vpos - Vneg = -∫Es ds, where E represents the electric field strength and ds is the differential distance. The user initially calculated the distance as 0.0761577 m but incorrectly multiplied it by 1000, leading to an erroneous value of 76.1577. The correct approach emphasizes that potential difference is determined by the product of the electric field and the perpendicular distance between the equipotential surfaces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and potential difference
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically integration
  • Knowledge of equipotential surfaces and their properties
  • Basic physics concepts related to electrostatics
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  • Study the concept of electric field strength (E) in uniform fields
  • Learn about equipotential surfaces and their relationship to electric fields
  • Explore integration techniques for calculating potential differences
  • Investigate common mistakes in calculating potential differences in electrostatics
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electrostatics, as well as educators looking for examples of potential difference calculations in uniform electric fields.

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Homework Statement



What is the potential difference between A and B?

knight_Figure_30_34.jpg


Homework Equations



ΔV=Vpos-Vneg=-∫Esds

The Attempt at a Solution



I got the distance between the points to be about 0.0761577 m

After this I multiplied it by 1000, giving about 76.1577, which is incorrect

Thanks in advance for the help!
 
Last edited:
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Equipotential surfaces are perpendicular to the electric field lines of froces. Potential differece = VB - VA = E*d where d is the perpenicular distance between two parallel planes passing through A and B
 

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