Electric Potential Physics Example 1

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Example 1

medium
What is the electric potential 0.3 m0.3 \text{ m} from a point charge of 6×10−6 C6 \times 10^{-6} \text{ C}? Use k=9×109 N m2/C2k = 9 \times 10^9 \text{ N m}^2/\text{C}^2.

Solution

  1. 1
    Use the electric potential formula for a point charge: V=kqrV = k\dfrac{q}{r}, where k=9×109 N m2/C2k = 9 \times 10^9\,\text{N m}^2/\text{C}^2.
  2. 2
    Identify given values: q=6×10−6 Cq = 6 \times 10^{-6}\,\text{C}, r=0.3 mr = 0.3\,\text{m}. Compute qr=6×10−60.3=2×10−5\dfrac{q}{r} = \dfrac{6 \times 10^{-6}}{0.3} = 2 \times 10^{-5}.
  3. 3
    Multiply by kk: V=9×109×2×10−5=1.8×105 VV = 9 \times 10^9 \times 2 \times 10^{-5} = 1.8 \times 10^5\,\text{V}

Answer

V=1.8×105 VV = 1.8 \times 10^5 \text{ V}
Electric potential is the electric potential energy per unit charge. Unlike the electric field (a vector), potential is a scalar quantity, making it easier to work with in many calculations.

About Electric Potential

The electric potential energy per unit charge at a point in an electric field. Measured in volts (V).

Learn more about Electric Potential →

More Electric Potential Examples

Example 2 hard

How much work is needed to move a [formula] charge from a point at [formula] to a point at [formula]

Example 3 medium

An electron ([formula]) is accelerated through a potential difference of [formula]. What kinetic ene

Example 4 hard

A uniform electric field of [formula] exists between two parallel plates separated by [formula]. (a)

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