What is the Energy of a Charged Sphere of Radius R?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the energy of a charged sphere with a varying charge density described by the function kr, where k is a constant. Participants are exploring the potential energy associated with this configuration and the necessary integrations to arrive at a solution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest finding the potential inside the sphere and integrating the charge density multiplied by the potential over the volume. There are questions regarding the potential outside the sphere and the origin of the energy term, with some expressing confusion about the integration process and the concept of interaction energy.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various attempts to calculate the energy, with some participants providing specific algebraic results while others express uncertainty about their correctness. There is an ongoing exploration of the mathematical steps involved, and guidance has been offered regarding the integration of work done in assembling the charge layers.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating complex algebraic expressions and the implications of charge distribution. There is a noted lack of clarity regarding the energy term and the integration limits, which may affect the overall understanding of the problem.

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A sphere of radius R carries a charge density kr(where k is a constant!).What will be the energy of the Configuration??
 
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1. Find the potential phi(r) inside the sphere.
2. Integrate rho*phi/2 over the volume of the sphere.
3. The algebra is a bit complicated. I get 35pi^2k^2R^7/72, but check me for errors.
 
Gentleman,Why won't will be find the Potential outside the sphere..
I am very much perplexed with this Energy term..This is interaction energy
Pls help logically,i can do the maths involved.!
Pls explain the origin of energy and i think we will integrate over whole space...but i don't have clear idea.!
 
Meir Achuz said:
1. Find the potential phi(r) inside the sphere.
2. Integrate rho*phi/2 over the volume of the sphere.
3. The algebra is a bit complicated. I get 35pi^2k^2R^7/72, but check me for errors.


Well i got the solution as 4pi*k^2*R^7/21*epsilon!
I don't know whether you are correct or me!
 
The energy is due to the work done in configuring the sphere. Consider the sphere of radius r, and add a layer of thickness dr. Calculate the work dw is required to put this layer of charge. Integrate the work dw over the radius 0 to R. This will be the energy of the configuration
 

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