Show the equipotential surface is a spherical surface

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on demonstrating that the equipotential surface V=0 for a system of two charges, a positive point charge and a negative point charge, is a spherical surface. Participants emphasize the importance of identifying points along the x-axis where the potential is zero. The concept of equipotential surfaces is clarified, noting that they represent locations of equal potential. The challenge involves calculating the center and radius of the resulting sphere. Ultimately, the discussion aims to provide a mathematical proof of the spherical nature of the equipotential surface.
blueyellow

Homework Statement



consider now a system of two charges: a point charge q>0 located at the position (x,y,z)=(a,0,0) and a point charge -q/2 located at (-a,0,0).Show that the equipotential surface V=0, i.e. with the same potential than at infinity, is a spherical surface. Determine the centre and the radius of the sphere.

The Attempt at a Solution


tried looking up equipotential surfaces. couldn't find much
 
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hi blueyellow! :smile:
blueyellow said:
tried looking up equipotential surfaces. couldn't find much

an equipotential surface is pretty much what it says on the tin!

start by finding the two points on the x-axis with potential zero :wink:​
 
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