- #31
mindarson
- 64
- 0
TSny said:
No, you're right, it points downwards so should be < 0.
Tricky problem - Find E-field of a sheet of charge
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Homework Help Overview
The problem involves finding the electric field generated by a uniformly charged, infinitesimally thin rectangular sheet of charge. The sheet extends from x = 0 to x = -w and from y = 0 to y = L, and the goal is to determine the electric field at a point along the positive x-axis.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants discuss breaking the rectangular area into vertical strips to simplify the integration process. There are considerations about defining surface elements and integrating over the appropriate variables.
- Some participants express confusion regarding the limits of integration and the correct interpretation of the distance variable 'z' in relation to the electric field calculation.
- Questions arise about how to account for the electric field being a vector quantity and how to handle potential division by zero in the integrals.
- There is a suggestion to treat a representative strip as a line charge and compute its contribution to the electric field, followed by integrating over the entire charge distribution.
Discussion Status
The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their interpretations and approaches. Some guidance has been offered regarding the integration process and the need to consider the vector nature of the electric field. However, multiple interpretations and uncertainties remain, particularly concerning the limits of integration and the treatment of the distance variable.
Contextual Notes
Participants note the importance of the geometry of the problem and the potential complications arising from the integration limits. There is also mention of the need to clarify the relationship between the variables involved in the electric field calculation.
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