Electric Field and Potential Scenario

If we have a system of two equal and opposite charges, the potential at infinity will be zero since V=kQ/r, and as r->∞, V->0. At the same time, the electric field at infinity will also be zero since E=kQ/r^2, and as r->∞, E->0. Therefore, in this scenario, both the potential and electric field of the system are equal to zero at the same time.
  • #1
JoeManSho
1
0

Homework Statement


I was wondering in what situation would the potential and the electric field of the system both be equal to zero at the same time?

Homework Equations


W=-ΔU=-ΔVq
ΔV=-∫Edr
V=kQ/r (with reference r->∞)

The Attempt at a Solution


I know for the middle of a dipole the potential is zero while the electric field is non-zero.
Then for the middle of two identical charges the electric field is zero while the potential is non-zero.
I've been stuck on trying to think of a scenario where both are zero.
Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
JoeManSho said:
I've been stuck on trying to think of a scenario where both are zero.
How about at infinity?
 

FAQ: Electric Field and Potential Scenario

1. What is an electric field and how is it created?

An electric field is a region in space where an electric charge experiences a force. It is created by electric charges, either positive or negative, that exert forces on each other. The strength of the electric field is determined by the magnitude and location of the charges.

2. How is the electric potential different from the electric field?

The electric potential is a measure of the potential energy of an electric charge in an electric field. It is a scalar quantity and is independent of the charge experiencing the electric field. On the other hand, the electric field is a vector quantity and is dependent on the charge experiencing the field.

3. What is the relationship between electric field and electric potential?

The electric field is the gradient of the electric potential. In other words, the electric field is the rate of change of electric potential with respect to distance. This means that the direction of the electric field is towards lower electric potential.

4. How does the presence of conductors or insulators affect the electric field and potential?

Conductors allow charges to move freely, so the electric field inside a conductor is zero and the electric potential is constant. Insulators, on the other hand, do not allow charges to move easily, so the electric field and potential are not affected by the presence of an insulator.

5. Can the electric field and potential be measured?

Yes, the electric field and potential can be measured using various instruments such as voltmeters and field meters. These instruments can measure the strength and direction of the electric field and the potential difference between different points in an electric field.

Similar threads

Why does electric potential energy increase if you move against the field?
Replies
6
Views
444
Why Is Work Positive When Done Against the Electric Field?
Replies
22
Views
2K
Ion moving through electric potential difference and magnetic field
Replies
8
Views
896
Potential difference between two points in an electric field
Replies
1
Views
2K
Calculating eletric potential using line integral of electric field
Replies
1
Views
2K
Understanding the energy of a dipole in a uniform electric field
Replies
2
Views
2K
Find the electric field between 2 finite discs
Replies
16
Views
540
Potential and Electric Field near a Charged CD Disk
Replies
2
Views
996
Electric Potential and Field Diagram - True/False
Replies
6
Views
2K
Potential at a Point: A Question of Solutions
Replies
2
Views
954

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top