What is the Magnitude of the Dipole Moment in a Uniform Electric Field?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnitude of the dipole moment in a uniform electric field, specifically given a potential energy function that depends on the angle between the dipole moment and the electric field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the potential energy equation and its relationship to the dipole moment and electric field. There are attempts to clarify the correct expression for potential energy and considerations about the angle involved in the calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different interpretations of the potential energy equation and its implications for calculating the dipole moment. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of angles and the maximum potential energy, but no consensus has been reached on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a graph associated with the problem, which may provide additional context or information that is currently not detailed in the discussion. The presence of an integral is also noted as a potential requirement for solving the problem.

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Homework Statement


A certain electric dipole is placed in a uniform electric field E of magnitude 20 N/C. Figure 22-59 gives the potential energy U of the dipole versus the angle θ between E and the dipole moment P. What is the magnitude of P?


Homework Equations


U=p(dot)E


The Attempt at a Solution


Somehow there is an integral needed to solve this but I don't know where to start. there is also a graph with this question.
 
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i thought...
U=-\vec{p} \cdot \vec{E}
but idk if that really changes much.
 
It does, i was just forgetting to multiply it by the factor of 10^-26 hehe. Thanks.
 
can't you just take Us to be the maximum, and the angle of 180 to be the angle that corresponds to the maximum potential, and plug these into U=-pEcos(theta), along with the magnitude of E?
 

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