The potential at points around a cone

In summary, the conversation is about finding the potential at the center of the top of a conical surface with a uniform surface charge. The person discussing the problem used cylindrical coordinates and solved for the distance from any point on the cone to the origin. However, their result differed from the given answer. After a correction from another person, it was found that the correct answer is V = \frac{\sigma h}{2\epsilon}\ln(1+\sqrt{2}).
  • #1
Identity
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Homework Statement



"A conical surface (an empty ice-cream cone) carries a uniform surface charge [tex]\sigma[/tex]. The height of the cone is h, as is the radius of the top. Find the potential at the centre of the top, taking infinity as reference point." - Griffiths

My result for the potential differs from the answer's. Can someone please check my solution

Homework Equations



[tex]V = \iint_S \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0}\frac{\sigma}{x} dS[/tex], where [tex]x[/tex] is the distance from the source to the point.

The Attempt at a Solution



My diagram is in the attached picture.

First off, I used cylindrical coordinates with the equation z = r, z > 0 to graph the cone
I found [tex]dS = \sqrt{2}zdA[/tex]

The distance from any point on the cone to the origin is [tex]\sqrt{2} z[/tex], so using the cosine law,
[tex]x = \sqrt{2z^2-2hz+h^2}[/tex]

So we have

[tex]V = \int_0^h\int_0^{2\pi} \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0} \frac{\sigma}{\sqrt{2z^2-2hz+h^2}} \sqrt{2}z d\theta dz=\frac{\sigma h}{4\epsilon}\ln(2\sqrt{2}+3)[/tex]


Answer: [tex]V = \frac{\sigma h}{2\epsilon}\ln(1+\sqrt{2})[/tex]


thanks!
 

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  • #2
Identity said:
[tex]V = \int_0^h\int_0^{2\pi} \frac{1}{4\pi \epsilon_0} \frac{\sigma}{\sqrt{2z^2-2hz+h^2}} \sqrt{2}z d\theta dz=\frac{\sigma h}{4\epsilon}\ln(2\sqrt{2}+3)[/tex]


Answer: [tex]V = \frac{\sigma h}{2\epsilon}\ln(1+\sqrt{2})[/tex]

Hi Identity! :smile:

erm :redface: … 2ln(1 + √2) = ln(3 + 2√2) :wink:
 
  • #3
:eek: oh my!
thankyou tiny-tim
 

FAQ: The potential at points around a cone

What is a cone?

A cone is a three-dimensional geometric shape that tapers from a circular base to a point at the top. It resembles a solid ice cream cone or traffic cone.

What is potential?

In physics, potential refers to the amount of energy possessed by an object or system based on its position or configuration. It is typically measured in units of joules (J) or electron volts (eV).

How is potential calculated at points around a cone?

The potential at a specific point around a cone can be calculated using the equation V = kQ/r, where V is the potential, k is the Coulomb constant, Q is the charge of the cone, and r is the distance from the point to the center of the cone.

What factors affect the potential at points around a cone?

The potential at points around a cone is affected by the charge of the cone, the distance from the point to the center of the cone, and the dielectric constant of the surrounding medium. It may also be affected by nearby objects or electric fields.

How is the potential graph around a cone shaped?

The potential graph around a cone is typically shaped like a bowl, with the highest point at the tip of the cone and the lowest point at the base. The shape of the graph may vary depending on the specific charge and dimensions of the cone.

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