Solving for Electric Field at an Angle: Ex = 10.0V/m

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the electric potential difference given an electric field Ex of 10.0 V/m at a point located 4.00 m along the x-axis and 3.00 m along the y-axis. The derived potential difference (dV) is calculated to be -50.0 V, leading to a final potential of 50.0 V from an initial 100 V. However, a discrepancy arises as the provided solution states the potential is 50.5 V, suggesting that the angle of 45.0° may influence the calculation. The importance of direction in electric fields is emphasized, indicating that the angle from the origin to the point should be considered in the analysis. Understanding how the angle affects the electric field is crucial for accurate potential calculations.
TTauri
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Homework Statement
In a certain region of space, there is a uniform electric field of magnitude
10.0 V m−1 directed at 45.0◦ to the positive direction of both the x and y axes. (There is no z
component of the electric field.) The electric potential at the origin is +100 V. What is the electric
potential at the point where x = 4.00 m and y = 3.00 m?
Relevant Equations
Ex = -dV/dx
Ex =10.0Vm-1
dx= d2=x2+y2
x=4.00m
y=3.00m
d2=4.002+3.002
d=5.00m
Ex = -dV/dx
10.0Vm-1=-dV/5.00m
10.0Vm-1*5.00m=-dV
-50.0V=dV
So from origin at 100V-50.0V = 50.0V

But the solution I am given gives the answer at 50.5V and the information "directed at 45.0◦ " does not seem to have been used so may related to the difference.
I have hunted a bit round the internet and through textbooks but cannot find this formulation with the field being directed at an angle.
 
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Realize that direction matters. If you drew a line from the origin to the point in question, what angle would the field make with that line?
 
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