What is the flux through each face of the pyramid?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric flux through each face of a pyramid with a base measuring 6m x 6m and a height of 4m, subjected to a uniform electric field of 52 N/C. The flux through the base is calculated using the formula EA cos(theta), resulting in 1872 N m²/C. The area of each triangular face is determined to be 15 m², and the angle between the electric field and the normal to the surface is derived using trigonometric principles, leading to a flux of 374.6 N/C for one face. The total flux through all four triangular faces is calculated to be 1498 N/C.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric flux and the formula EA cos(theta)
  • Basic knowledge of geometry, specifically the area of triangles
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and their applications
  • Concept of electric fields and their interaction with surfaces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric flux in three-dimensional shapes
  • Learn about the application of Gauss's Law in calculating electric flux
  • Explore the relationship between electric fields and surface area in different geometries
  • Investigate the effects of varying electric field strengths on flux calculations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone involved in electromagnetism, particularly those studying electric fields and their effects on various geometrical shapes.

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Homework Statement



base of pyramid is a 6m x 6m square height of pyramid is 4meters. a 52 N/C E field orthogonal to the base of the pyramid


Homework Equations



EA cos theta

The Attempt at a Solution



if flux through base = EAcos theta = 52 (36m^2) cos(0) = 1872 N m^2 / C

Area of face of pyramid is 1/2 base x height = (.5)(6)(4) = 12

angle of normal to surface and E field is cos-1(3/5)

Why is flux through each surface not equal to the following:
so flux through one surface is = 52 N/C x 12m x cos(53.1) = 374.6
374.6 x 4 = 1498 N/ C

how do i derive flux through each face?
 
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Area of face of pyramid is 1/2 base x height = (.5)(6)(4) = 12
The height of the faces is not the height of the pyramid.
 
right on thanks.

height is sqrt(3^2+4^2)

Area of face of pyramid is 1/2 base x height = (.5)(6)(5) = 15
 

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