Ring of radius R and uniform charge

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the distance along the central axis of a ring with a radius of R = 0.200 m and a uniform charge where the electric field magnitude is maximized. The relevant equation for the electric field E is given by E = kqz / (z² + R²)^(3/2). The solution involves differentiating this equation with respect to z, setting the derivative equal to zero, and solving for z. The user initially struggled with differentiation but ultimately resolved the issue.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and Coulomb's law
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically differentiation
  • Knowledge of the constants k (Coulomb's constant) and q (charge)
  • Basic understanding of geometry related to circular rings
NEXT STEPS
  • Review differentiation techniques for functions involving powers and products
  • Study the derivation of electric fields from charge distributions
  • Explore the concept of maxima and minima in calculus
  • Investigate applications of electric fields in physics problems involving symmetry
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding electric fields generated by charge distributions.

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Homework Statement


At what distance along the central axis of a ring of radius R = 0.200 m and uniform charge is the magnitude of the electric field due to the ring's charge maximum? What is the positive solution for z?


Homework Equations


E = [itex]\frac{kqz}{(z^2+R^2)^(3/2)}[/itex]



The Attempt at a Solution


I know I should differentiate that above equation with respect to z and then set it equal to 0 to get z but i just don't know how to differentiate that ..

E = [itex]\frac{kqz}{(z^2+R^2)^(3/2)}[/itex]

the k and the q are held as constants and can be taken out of the differentiation ..

= kq*[[itex]\frac{d}{dz}[/itex]((z2+R2)3/2]

isn't [itex]\frac{d}{dz}[/itex]((z2+R2)3/2 = -3z(z2+R2)^(-5/2) ??

so it would be kq [-3z(z2+R2)^(-5/2)]

but that doesn't work for when you set it = 0. what am i supposed to be doing that I am not
 
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never mind .. i got it now!
 

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