What is the Potential Difference VC-VA in the Electric Field Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the potential difference VC-VA in an electric field problem involving a 34.26 nC charge. It is established that moving the charge from point A to B requires 3.3 μJ of work, while moving it from C to B requires -3.3 μJ of work. The relevant equation used is Uel = qV, which relates electric potential energy to charge and potential difference. The conclusion emphasizes that potential differences are significant, and the potential at any point can be set to zero for calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and potential difference
  • Familiarity with the concept of electric charge (nC)
  • Knowledge of work-energy principles in electric fields
  • Ability to manipulate equations involving Uel = qV
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of electric potential and its significance in electrostatics
  • Learn how to calculate potential differences in various configurations of electric fields
  • Explore the implications of negative work in electric field problems
  • Investigate the relationship between electric potential energy and electric field strength
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics or electric field theory, particularly those tackling problems involving potential differences and electric charges.

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Potential difference please help!

Homework Statement


It takes 3.3 μJ of work to move a 34.26 nC charge from point A to B. It takes -3.3 μJ of work to move the charge from C to B. What is the potential difference VC-VA?


Homework Equations


Uel = qV


The Attempt at a Solution


Don't I just find the difference between A and C?
Vc = Uelc * qc = 1.13x10^-13
And Va would be the same so I know I am not understanding this.
 
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Let's do this in pieces.

Since only potential differences are physically significant, you can set the potential at zero at any point you want. Let's set [itex]V_A=0[/itex]. Since it takes negative work to move a charge from A to B, is [itex]V_B[/itex] less than, greater than, or equal to [itex]V_A[/itex]? Can you compute [itex]V_B[/itex]?
 

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