I need to calculate the closest two parallel plates can get before they spark
I have the voltage, and will use E=V/dist (rearranged) to get the distance.
I THINK the field strength value I should use is 3x10^-6 Vm^-1.
No other info is given in the question, so am i close?
Thanks
that's 3x10^6, not -6
Dry air has a breakdown voltage of about 30Kv/inch, so your breakdown voltage is about three times higher than that. However, knowing what I know, I would stick with about 30kv/inch
To calculate the closest distance two parallel plates can get before they spark, you need to consider the breakdown voltage or breakdown strength of the material between the plates. The breakdown voltage is the minimum voltage required to cause sparking or electrical breakdown in the material.
The breakdown strength is expressed in terms of electric field strength and is typically given as a constant value for a specific material. In your case, you mentioned a value of 3x10^-6 Vm^-1, which could be a breakdown field strength value for a specific material.
However, it's important to note that the breakdown strength of a material can vary depending on various factors such as temperature, pressure, humidity, and surface conditions. Therefore, you need to ensure that the breakdown strength value you are using is appropriate for the specific material and conditions in your scenario.
Once you have the breakdown field strength value, you can use the formula E=V/d, where E is the electric field strength, V is the voltage, and d is the distance between the parallel plates. Rearranging the formula, you can solve for the distance (d = V/E). By substituting the breakdown field strength value, you can calculate the minimum distance at which the plates will spark.
Assuming you have the correct breakdown field strength value for your material, you are on the right track in using the formula E=V/dist and rearranging it to calculate the distance. Just make sure to double-check the accuracy and reliability of the breakdown field strength value you are using.