Solve Point Charge Deflection: Potential Difference Between Plates

In summary: Also, think about what the force is actually doing in this situation.In summary, the problem involves a point charge suspended by a thread between the plates of a parallel-plate capacitor. The angle of deflection is 22° and the separation between the plates is 0.025 m. Using the equation U = 0.5C*V^2, the potential difference between the plates can be determined. To begin, the tension in the string must be found, which can be calculated using the equation T*cos22 = mg. Since the mass is in equilibrium, the horizontal component of the force is equal to the tension force. This force can then be used in the equation F = q(V/x) to find the potential difference
  • #1
waleye262
6
0

Homework Statement



A point charge of mass 0.069 kg and charge q = +5.89 µC is suspended by a thread between the vertical parallel plates of a parallel-plate capacitor.

If the angle of deflection is 22°, and the separation between the plates is 0.025 m, what is the potential difference between the plates?



Homework Equations



U = .5C*V^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I know the left has a higher potential energy because the mass is attracted toward the right?
 
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  • #2
waleye262 said:

Homework Statement



A point charge of mass 0.069 kg and charge q = +5.89 µC is suspended by a thread between the vertical parallel plates of a parallel-plate capacitor.

If the angle of deflection is 22°, and the separation between the plates is 0.025 m, what is the potential difference between the plates?

Homework Equations



U = .5C*V^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I know the left has a higher potential energy because the mass is attracted toward the right?
Welcome to PF,

If the charge is displaced to the right, then the left would indeed be at a higher potential.

Can you start by determining the tension in the string?
 
  • #3
The tension of the string is m*g= .68

I am still lost at how to find the the force that attracts it to the side.

would it be 5.89E-6 cos 22?
 
  • #4
waleye262 said:
The tension of the string is m*g= .68
That would be correct if the string was hanging vertically, but that isn't the case is it?
 
  • #5
no its not hanging vertically so mg=cos22?

I am sort of lost...
 
  • #6
waleye262 said:
no its not hanging vertically so mg=cos22?
You're getting closer:

[tex]T\cos22 = mg[/tex]

Now since the mass is in equilibrium, what can you say about the horizontal forces acting on the mass?
 
  • #7
alright so the force acting on the mass is the same as the tension force which is 0.729.

so would you use F=q(v/x)?
 
  • #8
waleye262 said:
alright so the force acting on the mass is the same as the tension force which is 0.729.

so would you use F=q(v/x)?
Remember that you want the horizontal component of the force, not the vertical.
 

Related to Solve Point Charge Deflection: Potential Difference Between Plates

What is point charge deflection?

Point charge deflection is the movement of a charged particle in an electric field. This occurs when the charged particle experiences a force due to the electric field, causing it to change direction.

What is the potential difference between plates?

The potential difference between plates refers to the difference in electric potential between two points on different plates. It is measured in volts and is a measure of the work required to move a unit of charge from one plate to the other.

How do you solve for point charge deflection?

To solve for point charge deflection, you must first determine the electric field between the plates. This can be done using the formula E = V/d, where E is the electric field, V is the potential difference, and d is the distance between the plates. Once the electric field is known, you can use the equation F = qE to calculate the force on the charged particle, and then use Newton's second law to determine its acceleration and therefore its deflection.

What factors affect the potential difference between plates?

The potential difference between plates is affected by several factors, including the distance between the plates, the magnitude of the charges on the plates, and the dielectric constant of the material between the plates. Additionally, the shape and size of the plates can also impact the potential difference.

Why is it important to understand point charge deflection and potential difference between plates?

Understanding point charge deflection and potential difference between plates is important in many areas of science and technology. This knowledge is crucial for designing and understanding electronic circuits, as well as in fields such as physics and chemistry where electric fields play a significant role. Additionally, this understanding can help us better understand and harness the power of electricity in various applications.

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