Superposition principle? How to algebraically add up two equations?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of the superposition principle in vector addition, specifically in the context of two equations involving electric field components. The equations presented are (λ (√3)) / (4pi(ε naught)R) (√3/2 i hat - 1/2 j hat) and (λ (√3)) / (4pi(ε naught)R) (√3/2 i hat + 1/2 j hat). Participants confirm that the j components cancel each other out, leading to the conclusion that only the i components need to be summed. The final result is derived by adding the coefficients of the i components while separately handling the j components.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector addition in physics
  • Familiarity with the superposition principle
  • Knowledge of electric field concepts, particularly in relation to λ (linear charge density)
  • Basic proficiency in algebraic manipulation of equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector addition in the context of electric fields
  • Learn about the superposition principle in electromagnetism
  • Explore the implications of linear charge density (λ) on electric field calculations
  • Practice algebraic manipulation of complex equations involving multiple components
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, as well as educators looking for clear examples of vector addition and the superposition principle.

nchin
Messages
172
Reaction score
0
Superposition principle? How to algebraically add up two equations??

How do you add up

(λ (√3)) / (4pi(ε naught)R) (√3/2 i hat - 1/2 j hat) + (λ (√3)) / (4pi(ε naught)R) (√3/2 i hat + 1/2 j hat)?

the 1/2 j hat cancels out right? but what do i do with everything else?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org


You would add the components together.

So you'd add the i's together and then add the j's separately.

e.g. i+j + i-j = (1+1)i + (1-1)j
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
934
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K