Why Use Full Distance in Capacitor Electric Field Calculation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of the electric field in a homemade capacitor consisting of two pie pans spaced 3.5 cm apart. The key equation used is dV = Ed, where dV represents the voltage difference, E is the electric field, and d is the distance. It is established that the electric field remains constant between the plates, thus the full distance of 3.5 cm is utilized in calculations, even when determining the field at the midpoint.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and capacitors
  • Familiarity with the equation dV = Ed
  • Basic knowledge of voltage and charge relationships
  • Concept of uniform electric fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of capacitor design and function
  • Learn about uniform electric fields in parallel plate capacitors
  • Explore the implications of electric field strength on capacitor performance
  • Investigate the effects of plate separation on electric field calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding capacitor behavior and electric field calculations.

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REVIEWING OLD TEST and.. don't understand why you use the full distance.

Homework Statement


pretty much there's a home made capacitor made by two pie pans 3.5 cm apart. V is given Q is given, the question asks:
calculate the electric field halfway between the plates

Homework Equations


dV=Ed


The Attempt at a Solution



you just simply plug in, but why is distance the full 3.5 cm and not half of that, as youre finding the field at a distance that is halfway between the plates? am i answering my own question and the E field is constant?
 
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Yes, the electric field is uniform between the plates so it would be the same.
 

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