A Conceptual Difficulty regarding Potentials

In summary, the conversation discusses the problem of two conducting spheres, one charged with +Q and the other neutral, and how charges are induced on the spheres. The conversation also explains that since E=0 inside a conductor, the potential difference between points A and B as well as between points B and C should be equal. However, the reasoning is incorrect as the conclusion that VA = VB and VB = VC is wrong. The correct equation is dV=-E.dr.
  • #1
Avi1995
21
0
Plz help me out with this difficulty. Here is a figure showing two conducting spheres(haven't drawn all EF lines):-
24b1yyg.jpg


Here is the problem, Suppose one of the spheres is charged with a charge +Q, other is neutral
, so charges will get induced as shown in figure. The left portion of orange sphere(neutral one)
is at lower potential than the right portion because it has -ve charge and other is +ve.
Since E=0 inside a conductor, we have:-
dV=-E.dr
so if we move from the point A(on left surface) to B, since E=0 we have,
dV=0
so VA =VB
Now if we move from the point C(on right surface) to B, since E=0 we have,
dV=0
so VB =VC
but Va<Vc??
What is wrong in this reasoning?


Homework Equations


dV=-E.dr
 
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  • #2
Avi1995 said:
Plz help me out with this difficulty. Here is a figure showing two conducting spheres(haven't drawn all EF lines):-
24b1yyg.jpg


Here is the problem, Suppose one of the spheres is charged with a charge +Q, other is neutral
, so charges will get induced as shown in figure. The left portion of orange sphere(neutral one)
is at lower potential than the right portion
because it has -ve charge and other is +ve.
Since E=0 inside a conductor, we have:-
dV=-E.dr
so if we move from the point A(on left surface) to B, since E=0 we have,
dV=0
so VA =VB
Now if we move from the point C(on right surface) to B, since E=0 we have,
dV=0
so VB =VC
but Va<Vc??
What is wrong in this reasoning?


Homework Equations


dV=-E.dr
The conclusion in sentence I put in RED above is wrong.
 

FAQ: A Conceptual Difficulty regarding Potentials

What is a conceptual difficulty regarding potentials?

A conceptual difficulty regarding potentials refers to the challenge of understanding and visualizing the abstract concept of potential energy. It is a fundamental concept in physics and other sciences that describes the energy an object has due to its position or state.

How is potential energy different from kinetic energy?

Potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position or state, while kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion. Potential energy can be thought of as stored energy, while kinetic energy is energy in motion.

What are some real-life examples of potential energy?

Some examples of potential energy include a roller coaster at the top of a hill, a stretched rubber band, a book on a shelf, or a ball at the top of a hill. All of these objects have the potential to do work or move due to their position or state.

What is the formula for calculating potential energy?

The formula for potential energy is PE = mgh, where m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height or position of the object. This formula can be used to calculate potential energy in various scenarios, such as a moving object or an object on a slope.

Why is understanding potential energy important for scientists?

Understanding potential energy is crucial for scientists because it helps explain and predict the behavior of objects in the physical world. It is a fundamental concept in many scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, and engineering, and is essential for understanding concepts such as work, power, and conservation of energy.

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