Module 3: Equipotential Mapping

Equipotential Mapping
Module 3

In this lab, you will use the iOLab cart to map out regions of uniform electric potential in the space between and around two spheres, one held at a positive potential and one held at a zero potential. By mapping out lines of equipotential, you can construct an estimation of the shape of the electric field lines.

Objectives

In this lab, you will:

• Use the voltage probe on the iOLab to seek and plot locations in the space between two areas of constant potential to see how the potential changes through space.
• Construct equipotential lines from voltage data collected with the iOLab
• Use these equipotential lines to sketch the electric field.
• Use the data for the voltages over short distances and the orientation of the electric field to calculate an estimate of the electric field strength at several locations. 

Read the Lab Document Download Read the Lab Document

 First, read through the instructional document discussing the concept of electric potential, equipotential lines, and how to create electric field lines from the drawing of equipotential surfaces.

Excel Workbook - Lab Report Download Excel Workbook - Lab Report

Open the Excel Workbook to prepare to begin the lab. Record your data and answer the comprehension questions as you work through the lab document above.

Lab Set Up and Data Collection

OBJECTIVE:

Construct a map of equipotential lines and the electric field in the space around and between two locations held at different, but constant electric potentials.