Electric Potential and Gauss' Laws Stuff (I think)

Can you explain the problem in more detail? In summary, the student is struggling with a problem involving calculus and is unsure of the relevance of certain equations. They are seeking help and clarification, but are facing challenges due to a lack of resources and difficulty understanding their professor. The attempted solution provided a potential equation, but the student is unsure of its accuracy and is seeking further explanation.
  • #1
I Am Robot
13
0

Homework Statement



[PLAIN]http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5679/physics2h.png

Homework Equations



Included above I believe...

The Attempt at a Solution



a) i think dq=[tex]\lambda[/tex]2[tex]\pi[/tex]dy

Some of the calculus that we are using I am shaky on and I just don't understand what is being asked here. The others I really am not sure of. I am trying to develop a better understanding but my school offers no tutoring and my professor is virtually a robot.
\
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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  • #2
I Am Robot said:

Homework Statement



[PLAIN]http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/5679/physics2h.png

Homework Equations



Included above I believe...

The Attempt at a Solution



a) i think dq=[tex]\lambda[/tex]2[tex]\pi[/tex]dy

Some of the calculus that we are using I am shaky on and I just don't understand what is being asked here. The others I really am not sure of. I am trying to develop a better understanding but my school offers no tutoring and my professor is virtually a robot.
\
You wrote dq=λ2π dy.

Where does the 2π come from?
 
Last edited by a moderator:

FAQ: Electric Potential and Gauss' Laws Stuff (I think)

1. What is electric potential?

Electric potential is the amount of work needed to move a unit of charge from one point to another in an electric field. It is measured in volts (V) and represents the potential energy per unit charge at a specific point in an electric field.

2. How is electric potential different from electric field?

Electric field is a vector quantity that represents the force per unit charge at a specific point in space. It is related to electric potential by the equation E = -∇V, where E is the electric field, V is the electric potential, and ∇ is the gradient operator. Essentially, electric potential is a scalar quantity while electric field is a vector quantity.

3. What is Gauss' Law?

Gauss' Law is a fundamental law in electromagnetism that relates the electric flux through a closed surface to the charge enclosed by that surface. It states that the electric flux through a closed surface is equal to the charge enclosed by that surface divided by the permittivity of free space (ε0). This law is based on the principle of conservation of electric charge.

4. How do you use Gauss' Law to calculate electric fields?

Gauss' Law can be used to calculate electric fields in situations where there is symmetry in the distribution of charges. The integral form of Gauss' Law allows us to calculate the electric flux through a closed surface by integrating the electric field over the surface. By setting this flux equal to the charge enclosed divided by ε0, we can solve for the electric field at a specific point.

5. What is the significance of electric potential in circuits?

In circuits, electric potential plays a crucial role in determining the flow of electric current. The difference in electric potential between two points is what drives the flow of electrons through a circuit. This potential difference, also known as voltage, is what powers electronic devices and allows them to function. By understanding electric potential, we can better design and optimize circuits for various applications.

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