V Due To Infinite Line of Point Charges

[Kajayacht]

1. Homework Statement
An infinite number of point positive charges of 2.0 C each are arranged in the following linear configuration with a = 88 cm. Find the electric potential at the point 0 on the scale.

(link to image)
http://img232.imageshack.us/i/prob02.gif/




2. Homework Equations

Sum of Geometric Series
S = a / (1-r)
Electric Potential
V = k*q / r

3. The Attempt at a Solution

S = .88 / (1-.5)
S = 1.76 m

V = 8.989e9 * 2 C / 1.76 m
V = 1.021 V which is wrong.

Any ideas what I'm doing wrong?

 

[anathema]

I would like to offer some suggestions to help you find the correct solution to this problem.

First, it is important to double check your calculations and make sure all units are consistent. In this case, the units for distance should be in meters, so the value for a should be 0.88 m instead of 88 cm.

Secondly, when using the formula for electric potential, it is important to consider the distance from the point to the charges. In this case, the distance from the point 0 to the first charge is 0.88 m, but the distance to the second charge is 1.76 m, and so on. Therefore, the formula should be written as V = k*q / r1 + k*q / r2 + k*q / r3 + ..., where r1 is the distance to the first charge, r2 is the distance to the second charge, and so on.

Lastly, it is important to consider the direction of the electric potential. Since all the charges are positive, the electric potential at point 0 will be positive. Therefore, the final answer should be a positive value.

I hope this helps you find the correct solution to this problem. Remember to always double check your calculations and consider all relevant factors when solving scientific problems.