Does it matter if a charge (unknown) placed at infinity

In summary, Considering the charge placed at infinity is important in electrostatics because it helps simplify calculations and allows us to analyze the behavior of charges in a given system. The direction and magnitude of the electric field created by the charge will depend on its sign and will decrease with distance, becoming negligible at infinity. It is not possible to physically place a charge at infinity, but considering it as a concept helps in understanding electric fields and their effects on nearby charges.
  • #1
vivekrai
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Homework Statement



Does it matter if a charge (unknown) placed at infinity w.r.t to one known charge be called positive or negative?


Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution


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  • #2
hi vivekrai! :smile:
vivekrai said:
Does it matter if a charge (unknown) placed at infinity w.r.t to one known charge be called positive or negative?

well, so long as it stays there, i don't see how it can do any harm :confused:

were you thinking of doing anything with it? :smile:
 

FAQ: Does it matter if a charge (unknown) placed at infinity

Does it matter if the charge placed at infinity is positive or negative?

Yes, it does matter. The direction of the electric field created by the charge will depend on the sign of the charge. A positive charge placed at infinity will create an outward electric field, while a negative charge will create an inward electric field.

Will the charge placed at infinity have any effect on nearby charges?

No, the charge placed at infinity will not have any effect on nearby charges. This is because the electric field created by the charge will decrease with distance and become negligible at infinity.

How does the magnitude of the charge affect its behavior when placed at infinity?

The magnitude of the charge placed at infinity does not affect its behavior. The electric field created by the charge will still decrease with distance and become negligible at infinity, regardless of the magnitude of the charge.

Can a charge be placed exactly at infinity?

No, it is not possible to place a charge exactly at infinity. Infinity is a concept of endlessness and cannot be physically reached.

Why is considering the charge at infinity important in electrostatics?

Considering the charge at infinity is important in electrostatics because it helps simplify calculations and allows us to analyze the behavior of charges in a given system. It also helps in understanding the concept of electric fields and their effects on charges at different distances.

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