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logearav
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Homework Statement
in my exam, i had the following question
say true or false--conductors are equipotential.
what is the answer?
Are Conductors Truly Equipotential?
- Thread starter logearav
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In summary, conductors are not always equipotential as their potential can vary depending on their shape and location. Being equipotential means that all points on the surface of the conductor have the same potential, resulting in a zero electric field and no movement of charges. However, conductors can be considered equipotential when there is no external electric field or when they are in electrostatic equilibrium. The distribution of charge on a conductor also affects its equipotentiality, with evenly distributed charge making it more likely to be equipotential.
in my exam, i had the following question
say true or false--conductors are equipotential.
what is the answer?
- #2
hikaru1221
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What do you think? 
Hint: When a conductor is equipotential, E-field inside the conductor is zero and E-field on the surface of the conductor is perpendicular to the surface. Can free electrons move under that circumstance?
Hint: When a conductor is equipotential, E-field inside the conductor is zero and E-field on the surface of the conductor is perpendicular to the surface. Can free electrons move under that circumstance?
FAQ: Are Conductors Truly Equipotential?
Are conductors equipotential?
The short answer is no. Conductors are not always equipotential, as their potential can vary depending on their shape and location. However, in certain cases, conductors can be considered equipotential.
What does it mean for a conductor to be equipotential?
Being equipotential means that all points on the surface of the conductor have the same potential. This means that the electric field inside the conductor is zero, and charges will not move within the conductor.
Why are conductors not always equipotential?
Conductors are not always equipotential because they can have different shapes and sizes, which can result in variations in the distribution of charge and potential. Additionally, external electric fields can also affect the potential of a conductor.
In what situations can conductors be considered equipotential?
Conductors are considered equipotential when the external electric field is zero or when the conductor is in electrostatic equilibrium. In these cases, the potential inside the conductor is constant, and all points on the surface have the same potential.
How is equipotentiality related to the distribution of charge on a conductor?
The distribution of charge on a conductor plays a crucial role in determining whether the conductor is equipotential. If the charge is evenly distributed, the conductor is more likely to be equipotential. However, if there is a concentration of charge in certain areas, the conductor may not be equipotential.