Calculating Electric Field Strength: Van de Graaff Problem Solution

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In summary, the Van de Graff problem is a physics problem that involves calculating the electric potential and electric field inside and outside of a hollow spherical shell of charge. To solve this problem, one must use Gauss's law and the relationship between electric potential and electric field. The practical applications of this problem include understanding the behavior of charged particles in electric fields and designing technologies such as particle accelerators and electrostatic generators. The assumptions made in solving this problem include a perfect conductor spherical shell, no external electric fields, and uniform charge distribution. Some tips for solving this problem include drawing a diagram, using symmetry, and paying attention to units for accuracy.
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Ryo124
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A van de Graaff generator puts negative charge on a metal sphere.

Suppose the radius of the sphere is a = 6.9 cm, and the charge on the sphere is Q = -1.0×10-8 C. Determine the electric field strength at a point 1.0 cm from the surface of the sphere (outside the sphere).


I've done this problem over and over and am not getting the correct answer.
I've used E = F/q and made F = kq/r^2
...from there, I don't know what to do. Please help. Thanks
 
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  • #2
It's E that equals kq/r^2, and be carefl about what r means here.
 

FAQ: Calculating Electric Field Strength: Van de Graaff Problem Solution

What is the Van de Graff problem?

The Van de Graff problem is a physics problem that involves calculating the electric potential and electric field inside and outside of a hollow spherical shell of charge.

How do you solve the Van de Graff problem?

To solve the Van de Graff problem, you must first use Gauss's law to calculate the electric field inside and outside of the spherical shell. Then, you can use the relationship between electric potential and electric field to find the electric potential inside and outside of the shell.

What are the applications of the Van de Graff problem?

The Van de Graff problem has practical applications in understanding the behavior of charged particles in electric fields and in designing technologies such as particle accelerators and electrostatic generators.

What are the assumptions made in solving the Van de Graff problem?

The Van de Graff problem assumes that the spherical shell is a perfect conductor and that there are no other external electric fields present. It also assumes that the charge is distributed uniformly on the surface of the shell.

What are some tips for solving the Van de Graff problem?

Some tips for solving the Van de Graff problem include drawing a diagram to visualize the problem, using symmetry to simplify calculations, and carefully considering the units of the final answer to ensure accuracy.

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