Voltage & Charged Rod: Common Misconceptions Explained

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around misconceptions regarding voltage and current, specifically in the context of a charged rod. Participants are examining the definitions and relationships between voltage, current, and potential difference.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the incorrect use of units for voltage and current, questioning whether the original statement is a trick question. They discuss the necessity of a potential difference and the implications of charge distribution on a rod.

Discussion Status

There is a productive exchange of ideas, with some participants providing clarifications about the definitions of voltage and current. Multiple interpretations of the original statement are being explored, particularly regarding the comparison of electric and magnetic potential.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the nuances of terminology and the implications of charge distribution, with some uncertainty about the intent behind the original question.

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Homework Statement


What is wrong with this statement: A charged rod has a voltage of 0.50 A through it. Explain your answer.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


A charged rod cannot have a voltage through it and voltage is not measured in A. Right? I know that to have a voltage, there must be a potential difference determined by two different charges. But what if the rod was a magnet? Would there be a voltage through a magnet?
 
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You're right, voltage is not measured in Amps. Current is. Is this supposed to be a trick question, or is it just to see if you are paying attention?
 
I don't know (?). Is it a trick question? :biggrin:
 
I think the only problem with the statement is the Amps bit. You're right that for there to be a potential difference you need a difference in charge, but if all the charge in the rod were at one end it could have a potential difference across it.

Magnetic "voltage" is different to electric voltage. You're right that a bar magnet would, in a sense, have a magnetic potential across it as it has two poles.
 
Thank you. That clarifies my understand of voltage, finally.
 

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