The electric field at a point due to an electric dipole, on an axis in...
The Electric Field due to an Electric Dipole at an Inclined Axis
Electric dipoles consist of two opposite charges of equal magnitude separated by a distance. When an electric dipole is placed on an axis inclined at an angle θ, the electric field at a point on that axis can be calculated using the formula for the electric field due to a dipole.
Electric Field Calculation
- The electric field at a point P on the axis of the dipole can be calculated using the formula:
E = (1/4πε₀) * [(p cos θ) / r² - (p/2) / (r + a)²]
- Where E is the electric field, ε₀ is the permittivity of free space, p is the dipole moment, θ is the angle between the axis of the dipole and the point, r is the distance of the point from the dipole, and a is the separation distance between the charges of the dipole.
Direction of the Electric Field
- The direction of the electric field at point P is along the axis of the dipole, from the negative charge towards the positive charge.
- The angle θ affects the magnitude of the electric field, with the field being strongest when θ = 0 and weakest when θ = 90°.
Effect of Distance on Electric Field
- As the distance r from the dipole increases, the magnitude of the electric field decreases according to the inverse square law.
- The electric field is inversely proportional to the cube of the distance when the distance is much larger than the separation distance a.
In conclusion, understanding the electric field due to an electric dipole on an inclined axis involves considering the angle θ, distance from the dipole, and the dipole moment. Calculating the electric field using the appropriate formula allows for the determination of the field strength and direction at a given point on the axis.