Where is the voltage potential zero given two points?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on finding the locations where the electric potential is zero between two fixed charges: a positive charge with ten times the magnitude of a negative charge. The equation for electric potential, V = kq/r, is applied to set up the problem, leading to a quadratic equation due to the two potential zero points. Participants clarify the setup, with one suggesting a correction to the equation used for calculating potential. The goal is to determine the distances from the negative charge where the total potential equals zero. The conversation emphasizes the need for accurate equation formulation to solve the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


Two charges are fixed in place with a separation d. One charge is positive and has ten times (n = 10) the magnitude of the other charge, which is negative. The positive charge lies to the left of the negative charge, as in Figure 19.10. Relative to the negative charge, locate the two spots on the line through the charges where the total potential is zero relative to d.
Positive distance to the left of -q: ____ X d
Positive distance to the right of -q: _____ X d


Homework Equations



V= kq/r

The Attempt at a Solution



0= k10q/(d-xd)+k-q/xd

That's about all I know, I'm sure we'll end up with a quadratic because there will be two spots where the potential = 0.
 
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xcmntgeek said:

The Attempt at a Solution



0= k10q/(d-xd)+k-q/xd

Shouldn't this equation be


\frac{k 10q}{d-x} + \frac{-qk}{x}=0


I didn't really draw out the problem as I haven't done these questions in a few years.
 
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