Parallel Potential Equation:
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The electric potential due to a point charge at a certain distance is given by the parallel potential equation. It represents the work needed to move a unit positive charge from infinity to that point in the electric field.
The calculator uses the parallel potential equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the electric potential at a distance d from a point charge Q in a vacuum.
Details: Electric potential is fundamental in understanding electric fields, capacitor design, and many applications in electronics and electrical engineering.
Tips: Enter Coulomb's constant (default is provided), charge in Coulombs, and distance in meters. All values must be positive.
Q1: What is the default value of Coulomb's constant?
A: The default is 8.9875517873682 × 10⁹ N·m²/C², which is the value in a vacuum.
Q2: What are typical units for electric potential?
A: The SI unit is volts (V), equivalent to joules per coulomb (J/C).
Q3: Does this work for multiple charges?
A: For multiple charges, you would calculate the potential from each charge and sum them algebraically.
Q4: How does medium affect the calculation?
A: In different media, k would be replaced by 1/(4πε) where ε is the permittivity of the medium.
Q5: What's the difference between potential and potential energy?
A: Potential is potential energy per unit charge, while potential energy depends on the specific charge placed in the field.