Question

Three identical point charges, each with a charge equal to q, lie in the xy plane. Two of the charges are on the axis at y = -a and y = +a, and the third charge is on the x axis at x = a.
(a) Find the potential as a function of position along the x axis. (Use any variable or symbol stated above along with the following as necessary: k for the Coulomb's constant, and q for the charge.)
Vx>a =
Vx<a =

(b) Use the Part (a) result to obtain an expression for Ex(x), the x component of the electric field as a function of x. (Use any variable or symbol stated above along with the following as necessary: k for the Coulomb's constant, and q for the charge.)
Ex>a =
Ex<a =

Check your answers to Parts (a) and (b) at the origin and as x approaches infinity to see if they yield the expected results. (Do this on paper. Your instructor may ask you to turn in this work.)

Answer 1