V Due To Infinite Line of Point Charges

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric potential at a specific point due to an infinite line of point charges, each with a charge of 2.0 C, arranged linearly with a separation of 88 cm. The user attempts to apply the formula for electric potential, V = k*q / r, but arrives at an incorrect value of 1.021 V. The correct approach involves understanding the sum of an infinite geometric series to determine the effective distance for calculating the potential, which was not properly addressed in the initial attempt.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and the formula V = k*q / r
  • Knowledge of geometric series and their summation
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's law and point charge interactions
  • Basic concepts of electrostatics in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the electric potential due to continuous charge distributions
  • Study the properties and applications of geometric series in physics
  • Learn about the concept of convergence in infinite series
  • Explore advanced electrostatics topics, including electric fields and potentials from various charge configurations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics, particularly those interested in understanding electric potentials from infinite charge distributions.

Kajayacht
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Homework Statement


An infinite number of point positive charges of 2.0 C each are arranged in the following linear configuration with a = 88 cm. Find the electric potential at the point 0 on the scale.

(link to image)
http://img232.imageshack.us/i/prob02.gif/

[URL]http://img232.imageshack.us/i/prob02.gif/[/URL]

Homework Equations



Sum of Geometric Series
S = a / (1-r)
Electric Potential
V = k*q / r

The Attempt at a Solution



S = .88 / (1-.5)
S = 1.76 m

V = 8.989e9 * 2 C / 1.76 m
V = 1.021 V which is wrong.

Any ideas what I'm doing wrong?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Nevermind, this should be in introductory physics :S Sorry guys lol
 

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