Understanding the Equation ε=ΔV/r: Parallel Plates vs. Point Charges

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The equation ε=ΔV/r applies to both parallel plates and point charges, but its accuracy varies. For parallel plates, it provides a good approximation, while for point charges, the equation is an approximation that improves with smaller distances. The correct electric field value is derived using calculus, specifically through the limit as Δ approaches zero, leading to E=-∇V. This highlights that while the equation can be used in both scenarios, the nuances of electric fields require more precise calculations for point charges. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate electrostatic analysis.
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For the equation ε=ΔV/r, does this work only between 2 parallel plates or would it work for point charges as well?
 
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Do you know calculus? Your equation seems to be another way of writing |E| = \Delta V/\Delta r, which is only an approximation. The correct value is gotten by taking the limit as Delta goes to 0. Then you get:
E=-\nabla V
In the special case of infinite parallel plate, they give the same answer, but for a curved E field you get a more accurate answer for smaller step size.
 
It may be shown from the equations of electromagnetism, by James Clerk Maxwell in the 1860’s, that the speed of light in the vacuum of free space is related to electric permittivity (ϵ) and magnetic permeability (μ) by the equation: c=1/√( μ ϵ ) . This value is a constant for the vacuum of free space and is independent of the motion of the observer. It was this fact, in part, that led Albert Einstein to Special Relativity.
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