Potential difference in a uniform electric field

In summary, the problem involves an insulating rod with linear charge and mass densities, released in a uniform electric field. The task is to determine the rod's speed after traveling a certain distance and to consider the effect of the orientation of the electric field on its motion. The solution for part A is 0.4 m/s, but there is confusion about the conceptual understanding of part B, as the motion of the rod may not behave the same if the electric field is not perpendicular to the rod. The solution involves considering the forces acting on the individual charges along the rod and the orientation of the rod with respect to the electric field.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



An insulating rod having linear
charge density l 5 40.0 mC/m and
linear mass density m 5 0.100 kg/m is
released from rest in a uniform electric
field E 5 100 V/m directed perpendicular
to the rod (Fig. P25.9). (a) Determine
the speed of the rod after it has
traveled 2.00 m. (b) What If? How does
your answer to part (a) change if the
electric field is not perpendicular to the rod? Explain.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I solved part A and got .4 m/s, but I don;t understand conceptually part b. if the rod is not perpendicular to the electric field, why would its motion behave exactly as if it was perpendicular?
 
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  • #2
Imagine the rod as a stack of point charges along its length. There is dq charge on dL length. What force acts on that charge? What force acts on the rod? Does it depend on the orientation of the rod with respect to the electric field?

ehild
 

FAQ: Potential difference in a uniform electric field

What is potential difference in a uniform electric field?

Potential difference in a uniform electric field is the difference in electric potential between two points in a uniform electric field. It is also known as voltage and is measured in volts (V).

How is potential difference related to electric field strength?

Potential difference is directly proportional to electric field strength. This means that the greater the electric field strength, the greater the potential difference between two points in the field.

What is the formula for calculating potential difference in a uniform electric field?

The formula for calculating potential difference in a uniform electric field is V = Ed, where V is the potential difference, E is the electric field strength, and d is the distance between the two points in the field. This formula assumes a constant electric field.

How is potential difference different from electric potential?

Potential difference is a measure of the difference in electric potential between two points in a field, while electric potential is a measure of the electric potential at a single point in a field. In other words, potential difference is a comparison between two points, while electric potential is a measurement at a specific point.

What are some real-world applications of potential difference in a uniform electric field?

Potential difference in a uniform electric field has many practical applications, including powering electronic devices, generating electricity in power plants, and providing the force necessary for electric motors to function. It is also used in various measurement instruments, such as voltmeters and oscilloscopes.

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