Find the magnitude of charge density for a power line

In summary, the potential difference between the surface of a 2.2 cm-diameter power line and a point 1.9 m distant is 3.8 kV. Using the equation V = (λ/2πε0)ln(2a/r), the line charge density on the power line can be calculated. However, the solution provided is incorrect and further analysis is needed to determine the correct value. Possible errors include not accounting for the factor of 2 inside the logarithm and not correctly identifying the value of "a" as the diameter of the wire.
  • #1
jlmccart03
175
9

Homework Statement


The potential difference between the surface of a 2.2 cm -diameter power line and a point 1.9 m distant is 3.8 kV.
What is the magnitude of the line charge density on the power line?
Express your answer using two significant figures.
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Homework Equations


V = (λ/2πε0)ln(2a/r)

The Attempt at a Solution


I simply converted some of the values to base units and got

3800 V = (λ/2π(8.9e-12C))(2(0.022m)/1.9m) = -5.6e-8 C/m which is -56.4 nC/m. Its wrong however. I don't get what I am doing wrong with I solve for λ.
 
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  • #2
jlmccart03 said:
V = (λ/2πε0)ln(2a/r)
Think about whether or not the factor of 2 inside the logarithm is correct. Does "a" stand for the diameter of the wire?

3800 V = (λ/2π(8.9e-12C))(2(0.022m)/1.9m) = -5.6e-8 C/m
The middle expression is missing the logarithm function.
Did you really mean to state that the middle expression equals the expression on the right? Note that if you read the entire line, you are saying that 3800 V = -5.6e-8 C/m.
 

Related to Find the magnitude of charge density for a power line

1. What is charge density and why is it important for power lines?

Charge density is the measure of electric charge per unit volume. It is important for power lines because it determines the strength of the electric field around the power line, which can impact the safety and efficiency of the power line.

2. How do you calculate the magnitude of charge density for a power line?

The magnitude of charge density for a power line can be calculated by dividing the total charge by the length of the power line. The total charge can be determined by multiplying the voltage of the power line by its capacitance.

3. What factors can affect the magnitude of charge density for a power line?

The magnitude of charge density for a power line can be affected by factors such as the voltage of the power line, the material and size of the power line, and the surrounding environment.

4. What is the typical range for charge density in power lines?

The typical range for charge density in power lines is between 1 to 10 nanoCoulombs per meter squared. However, this can vary depending on the specific characteristics of the power line.

5. How does the magnitude of charge density impact the safety of power lines?

The magnitude of charge density can impact the safety of power lines by determining the strength of the electric field around the power line. Higher charge densities can lead to stronger electric fields, which can pose a danger to people and animals near the power line.

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