- #1
Antonius
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My question is, why it's 1/2 [qiVi]? Shouldn't it just be qiVi?
Thank you ...
Why it's (1/2)? [Electric Potential Energy]
- Thread starter Antonius
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In summary, the factor of (1/2) is derived from the work done in moving a test charge from infinity to a specific distance away from a point charge or a collection of charges. It is necessary in the formula for electric potential energy as it accurately represents the concept and without it, the formula would be incorrect. The factor of (1/2) does not significantly affect the overall value of electric potential energy. It is specific to electric potential energy and cannot be applied to other forms of potential energy. The use of the letter U instead of V for electric potential energy helps to avoid confusion with voltage.
My question is, why it's 1/2 [qiVi]? Shouldn't it just be qiVi?
Thank you ...
- #2
- 6,887
- 2,323
You want to count "pairs"...
That is, if you include both [itex]\frac{q_1q_2}{r_{12}}[/itex] and [itex]\frac{q_2q_1}{r_{21}}[/itex], you are counting the same "pair" twice.
That is, if you include both [itex]\frac{q_1q_2}{r_{12}}[/itex] and [itex]\frac{q_2q_1}{r_{21}}[/itex], you are counting the same "pair" twice.
- #3
Antonius
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Oh I see,robphy said:
Related to Why it's (1/2)? [Electric Potential Energy]
1. Why is it (1/2)?
The factor of (1/2) is a result of the mathematical derivation of electric potential energy. It is derived from the work done in moving a test charge from infinity to a specific distance away from a point charge or a collection of charges.
2. Is the factor of (1/2) necessary in the formula for electric potential energy?
Yes, the factor of (1/2) is necessary as it accurately represents the work done in moving a test charge from infinity to a specific distance away from a point charge or a collection of charges. Without this factor, the formula would not accurately reflect the concept of electric potential energy.
3. How does the factor of (1/2) affect the value of electric potential energy?
The factor of (1/2) does not have a significant effect on the overall value of electric potential energy. It is simply a coefficient that is used in the formula to accurately calculate the work done in moving a test charge.
4. Can the factor of (1/2) be applied to other forms of potential energy?
No, the factor of (1/2) is specific to electric potential energy and cannot be applied to other forms of potential energy. Each type of potential energy has its own unique formula and coefficients.
5. Why is electric potential energy sometimes written as U instead of V?
The letter U is often used to represent electric potential energy to avoid confusion with voltage, which is represented by the letter V. This helps to differentiate between the two concepts and prevent errors in calculations.
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