Potential difference across a square

In summary, the problem involves two fixed charges (+4.0 μ C and -6.0 μ C) placed at opposite corners of a square. The goal is to find the charge needed at the intersection of the diagonals in order for the potential difference to be zero at the two unoccupied corners. This can be solved by setting up an equation using the formula V= (k*q)/r and using the fact that the problem is symmetric, so the length of half a diagonal is 1/(2)^(0.5) times the side of the square. This results in the equation having only one variable, q.
  • #1
shawli
78
0
potential difference across a "square"

Homework Statement



Two charges are placed at the corners of a square. One charge, +4.0 μ C, is fixed to one corner and another, −6.0 μ C, is fixed to the opposite corner. What charge would need to be placed at the intersection of the diagonals of the square in order to make the potential difference zero at each of the two unoccupied corners?


Homework Equations



V= (k*q)/ r

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to make an equation adding V1+V2+V3=0, but I end up having two unknowns ("d" for distance and "q" for the unknown charge at the intersection). Can someone help me set up the equation please?
 
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  • #2


show your working. I think you can just do this in one equation, the problem is symmetric.

The equation you suggested is correct, and you know one side immediately, right?
 
  • #3


Hey , the problem is symmetric as suggested by Onamor and you know that the length of half a diagonal is 1/(2)^(0.5) times the side of the square. So in your equation all the d's will be canceled and u will be left with q as the only variable
 

Related to Potential difference across a square

1. What is potential difference across a square?

Potential difference across a square is the difference in electrical potential between two points on a square. It is commonly denoted by the symbol V and measured in volts (V).

2. How is potential difference across a square calculated?

Potential difference across a square can be calculated by dividing the work done in moving a unit of charge from one point to another by the magnitude of the charge. Mathematically, it can be expressed as V = W/Q, where V is the potential difference, W is the work done, and Q is the charge.

3. What factors affect potential difference across a square?

Potential difference across a square is affected by the distance between the two points, the magnitude of the charge, and the type of material the square is made of. It is also influenced by external factors such as temperature and humidity.

4. Why is potential difference across a square important?

Potential difference across a square is important because it is a fundamental concept in understanding electricity and circuits. It is also essential in determining the flow of electric current and the behavior of different materials under different conditions.

5. How is potential difference across a square related to electric potential energy?

Potential difference across a square is directly related to electric potential energy. The greater the potential difference, the higher the electric potential energy. This means that a higher potential difference can result in a greater amount of work being done by the electric field on a unit of charge.

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