Electric fields between parallel plates

In summary, two large parallel plates placed 0.8 m apart generate an electric field of 12 N/C between them. By using the equation E=Vd, the voltages at each distance (0, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 0.8m) can be calculated. To find the PE (electrical), the equation PE = Vq is used, where q = +0.25 C. It is important to note that the charge does not gain energy as it passes through each location, but rather as it advances from one location to the next. Therefore, to find the kinetic energy gained at each location, one must determine the PE lost as the charge moves
  • #1
halo168
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0

Homework Statement


Two large parallel plates are 0.8 m apart and generate an electric field of 12 N/C between them.
  1. At 0, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full distance (0.8m), how much kinetic energy does a +0.25 C charge gain as it passes through each location?

Homework Equations


V = PE/q

The Attempt at a Solution


I found the voltages of each distance with the equation E=Vd solving for V. Then, I found the PE(electrical) using PE = Vq where q = +0.25 C. How do I find the Kinetic Energy?
 
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  • #2
halo168 said:
At 0, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and full distance (0.8m), how much kinetic energy does a +0.25 C charge gain as it passes through each location?
That's poorly worded. It doesn't gain energy as it passes through a location, it gains it as it advances from one to the next.
When it goes from the 0 to the 1/4 location, how much PE does it lose? What becomes of that PE, assuming no force to hinder it?
 

FAQ: Electric fields between parallel plates

1. What is the purpose of having parallel plates in an electric field?

The purpose of having parallel plates in an electric field is to create a uniform electric field between them. This allows for easier measurement and analysis of the electric field's properties.

2. How is the strength of an electric field between parallel plates determined?

The strength of an electric field between parallel plates is determined by the distance between the plates and the magnitude of the charge on each plate. The stronger the charge and the closer the plates are, the stronger the electric field will be.

3. What is the direction of the electric field between parallel plates?

The electric field between parallel plates is always directed from the positive plate to the negative plate. This means that the electric field lines are perpendicular to the plates and parallel to each other.

4. Can the electric field between parallel plates be manipulated?

Yes, the electric field between parallel plates can be manipulated by changing the distance between the plates or by changing the charge on the plates. This allows for control over the strength and direction of the electric field.

5. What are some real-world applications of the electric field between parallel plates?

The electric field between parallel plates has many practical applications, such as in capacitors, particle accelerators, and electrostatic speakers. It is also used in various scientific experiments and can be harnessed for energy generation.

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