How Do You Calculate the Electric Potential at Point X Relative to Point Y?

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SUMMARY

The electric potential at point X relative to point Y can be calculated using the formula V = kQ/d, where k is Coulomb's constant, Q is the charge, and d is the distance from the charge. For a point charge of +4.7 x 10-8C, point X is 0.25m away, resulting in a potential of 1.7 x 103 V. To find the potential at point Y, the same formula applies, and the potentials can be combined as scalars, reflecting the principle that electric potentials are independent of the path taken.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and point charges
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's constant (k = 8.99 x 109 N m2/C2)
  • Basic knowledge of distance measurement in physics
  • Ability to perform scalar addition and subtraction
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate electric potential for multiple point charges
  • Study the concept of electric field and its relation to electric potential
  • Explore the applications of electric potential in circuit analysis
  • Investigate the relationship between electric potential energy and work done by electric forces
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Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding electric potential calculations in electrostatics.

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Homework Statement


Point X is 0.25m away from a point charge of +4.7 X 10-8C, point Y is 0.65m away. What is the potential of point X with respect to point Y?


Homework Equations


V= kQ/d


The Attempt at a Solution


I was able to find the potential of X using V=kQ/d with respect to the point charge, which equals 1.7 X 103 V, but I'm not sure as to how to find it with respect to the Y point.
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi phm! Welcome to PF! :smile:
phm said:
… I was able to find the potential of X using V=kQ/d with respect to the point charge, which equals 1.7 X 103 V, but I'm not sure as to how to find it with respect to the Y point.

The whole point of having potentials is that they don't depend on path (so they are only defined for conservative forces) …

so the potentials just add and subtract as ordinary scalars (ordinary numbers) …

just like gravitational potential energy! :wink:
 

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