What is the potential difference VA-VB?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the potential difference between two points A and B in a uniform electric field defined by specific components. The original poster presents an initial attempt at the calculation but expresses uncertainty about the correctness of their approach.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the method of calculating potential difference using line integrals and the scalar product of the electric field and displacement vector. There is a focus on clarifying the correct application of these concepts.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on the correct formula for potential difference in a uniform electric field, emphasizing the importance of using the scalar product rather than the product of magnitudes. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, particularly regarding the sign of the potential difference.

Contextual Notes

The original poster's calculation appears to be based on a misunderstanding of the relationship between electric field and potential difference. There is also a sense of urgency expressed for assistance, indicating a time constraint on the discussion.

hoseA
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Points A (3 m, 2 m) and B (6 m, 6 m) are in a
region where the electric field is uniform and
given by E = Exi + Eyj, where Ex = 3 N/C
and Ey = 2 N/C.
What is the potential difference VA-VB?
Answer in units of V.

I used E(rB-rA)

sqr rt(13) times (sqr rt (72) - sqr rt (13)) = 17.59

this is wrong. What am i doing wrong?
 
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Given the field do you know how to calculate the potential (difference) in terms of a line intergral?
 
neutrino said:
Given the field do you know how to calculate the potential (difference) in terms of a line intergral?

help within the hour is much appreciated... I'm thinking maybe it should be negative?
 
hoseA said:
help within the hour is much appreciated... I'm thinking maybe it should be negative?

For a uniform E field, the potential difference is given by a scalar product (NOT a product of magnitudes!), \Delta V = - \vec E \cdot \vec r

Pat
 

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