Prove Voltage should be linear function of position

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around proving that voltage is a linear function of position in a physics lab context. The equation V(x) = Cx is established, with C being the slope of the voltage versus distance graph, given as 1.3594. The user derives that C can be expressed as Vin/L, leading to the equation V(x) = Vin*x/L. Clarification is sought on the necessity of numerical values or graphs, as the task seems to involve measuring voltage against wire length. The conclusion emphasizes that the relationship between voltage and wire length can be confirmed through experimental observation, aligning with the linearity of the graph.
avs
Giving that: V(x)=Cx
Express the answer in terms of wire length L, battery voltage Vin the variable x and any numerical or physical constant. C should equal to 1.3594 which is the slope of my volage vs distance graph.

This is what i got so far. Not sure if it is correct.
V=iR -> V=(i*(rho)*L)/A so therefore my C is i(rho)/A and L=x

Am i going in the right direction?
 
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Well, obviously C = Vin/L.
So V(x) = Vin*x/L.
I can't see what for you need the numerical value, or a graph.
Is this really college level?
 
Last edited:
yea it's for a physics 2 lab.
 
I'm puzzled by your titling this "Prove Voltage should be linear function of position" and then imediately saying "Giving (Given?)that: V(x)=Cx"

If the problem is to prove something, then you wouldn't be "given" it!

Since this is for a physics LAB, I suspect that you were asked to measure voltage versus length of wire in the laboratory, then graph the data. "Proving" (not in the mathematical sense) that voltage is a linear function of length is just a matter of observing that the points tend to lie along a line.

Since you say that you have already done that and found that the slope of the line is 1.3594, you know that you can write V(x) as
V(x)= 1.3594x+ V0 (V0 is the voltage when x= 0. If I understand your experiment correctly, that should be Vin.)

You are asked to "Express the answer in terms of wire length L, battery voltage Vin the variable x and any numerical or physical constant."

Okay, what is the voltage when x= L, then entire length of the wire?
If you call that Vl, then you should have (Vl- Vin)/L= slope= 1.3594.
 
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