Two 5.0-µC point charges are 12 cm apart.What is the electric potential (relative to infinity)of this combination at the point where the $\vec { E }$ field due to these charges is zero? (k = 1/4πε₀ = 9.0 × 10⁹ N ∙ m²/C²)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

We know that at the point where the electric field due to the charges is zero, the potential is maximum.

To find this point, we can use the principle of superposition and consider the potential due to each charge separately.

Using the formula for the electric potential due to a point charge:

V1 = k*(q1/r1) = (9.0 × 10^9 N ∙ m^2/C^2)*(5.0 × 10^-6 C)/(0.12 m) = 3.75 MV

V2 = k*(q2/r2) = (9.0 × 10^9 N ∙ m^2/C^2)*(5.0 × 10^-6 C)/(0.12 m) = 3.75 MV

The total potential at any point is the sum of the potentials due to each charge.

At the point where the electric field is zero, the potential due to each charge is equal in magnitude but opposite in sign.

Therefore, the total potential at this point is:

Vtotal = V1 + (-V2) = 3.75 MV - 3.75 MV = 0

Thus, the correct answer is B) 1.5 MV, which is twice the potential at the point where the charges are located.

Two 50-µC Point Charges Are 12 Cm Apart E⃗\vec { E }E

Two 50-µC Point Charges Are 12 Cm Apart $\vec { E }$