The Electric Field Produced by a Finite Charged Wire XD

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around deriving the electric field produced by a finite charged wire, with a focus on the final equation presented. The main confusion lies in expressing the equation in terms of the linear charge density (lambda) and the constant (k), as well as clarifying the mathematical manipulation of the expression involving d and L. Participants emphasize the importance of correctly defining k and lambda, with k being 1/4piE0 and lambda defined as q/L. There is a request for assistance in converting the equation into the desired terms while acknowledging the complexity of dealing with a finite length wire. The conversation highlights the need for clarity in mathematical expressions and definitions in physics problems.
vorcil
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My attempt,
After all the integrals I've got the final equation

(1/4piE0) * |q| / ( d * sqrt ( d^2 + (L/2)^2) )

i'm not too sure how to express it how the question asks,

please help!

the bit I'm confused on, is the ( d * sqrt ( d^2 + (L/2)^2) )

can it also be seen as (d * d) + (l/2)
or is it d * (d+(l/2))

bah
 
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d * (sqrt ( d^2 + (l/2)^2) ) = d*(L/2)?
 
vorcil said:
d * (sqrt ( d^2 + (l/2)^2) ) = d*(L/2)?

no because that's the thing if it becomes infinitely long and I'm dealing with a finite length
 
Not sure what you're trying to do here. The question simply asks you to give the answer in terms of L, lambda, d and k. You're missing a k and a lambda, use the definition of k and lambda to get them into your expression.
 
Cyosis said:
Not sure what you're trying to do here. The question simply asks you to give the answer in terms of L, lambda, d and k. You're missing a k and a lambda, use the definition of k and lambda to get them into your expression.

yes I am not a total retard as i was able to make the integral to the final equation.
anyway lol, I just don't know how to convert the

|q| / ( d * sqrt ( d^2 + (L/2)^2) )


part of the equation, in terms of lambda and d

-
 
What is the definition of k and what is the definition of lambda?
 
Cyosis said:
What is the definition of k and what is the definition of lambda?
k=1/4piEo
lambda=q/L

i don't know how to make lambda from q / d*sqrt(d^2+(L/2)^2)
 
So if \lambda=q/l then q=...? Note that the l you're using here is not the same l as in your problem, but a general symbol for length. Perhaps it is wise to show us your integration.
 
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