SUMMARY
The electric flux through the top surface of a cube with a 3 nC point charge at its center is calculated using the formula φ = E.A, where E is the electric field and A is the area. The correct electric field at the top surface must account for varying distances from the charge, rather than assuming a constant field. The initial calculation incorrectly used a distance of 2.52, which led to an inaccurate electric field value. The correct approach requires integrating the electric field over the surface area to account for the varying distances.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of electric flux and Gauss's Law
- Familiarity with the formula E = kq/r^2
- Knowledge of surface area calculations for geometric shapes
- Basic principles of electric fields and point charges
NEXT STEPS
- Study Gauss's Law and its application to electric flux
- Learn about integrating electric fields over surfaces
- Explore the concept of electric field lines and their relation to flux
- Review examples of electric flux calculations for various geometries
USEFUL FOR
Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone preparing for exams in electrostatics or related fields.