What factors affect the electric field around a charged conduction sphere?

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the electric field outside a solid conduction sphere charged to 500 volts with a radius of 1 cm. The formula for the electric field is E = (1/4pi epsilon) x charge/R^2, which results in an E field of 4.5 x 10^14. The conversation also mentions the importance of checking units and clarifies that the E field is inversely proportional to r^2.
  • #1
Cairrd
5
0
Ok for example, if a solid conduction sphere was charged to 500volts and had radius of 1cm. Then charge, Q = VR = 5?

So the E field just outside the sphere would be E = (1/4pi epsilon) x charge/R^2 = 4.5 x 10^14?

Or am i getting confused?
 
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  • #2
Cairrd said:
Ok for example, if a solid conduction sphere was charged to 500volts and had radius of 1cm. Then charge, Q = VR = 5?

So the E field just outside the sphere would be E = (1/4pi epsilon) x charge/R^2 = 4.5 x 10^14?

Or am i getting confused?
Just check your units. The E field anywhere outside the sphere is inversely proportional to r^2. You can find E just outside the surface, or anywhere else outside.
 
  • #3


First of all, it is important to clarify that the formula for charge, Q = VR, is only applicable for a capacitor, not a solid conduction sphere. For a solid sphere, the charge is not dependent on the voltage alone, but also on the material properties and geometry of the sphere. Therefore, the charge cannot be determined solely by the given voltage and radius.

As for the calculation of the electric field, your formula is correct. However, it is important to note that the electric field just outside the sphere is not only dependent on the charge, but also on the surrounding medium (represented by the permittivity, epsilon). So the value you have calculated may vary depending on the specific medium surrounding the sphere.

In conclusion, it is important to use the correct formulas and to consider all relevant factors when studying the behavior of a conduction sphere. It is also important to keep in mind that these calculations are simplified models and may not accurately represent real-world scenarios. Further experimentation and analysis would be necessary to fully understand the behavior of a conduction sphere.
 

FAQ: What factors affect the electric field around a charged conduction sphere?

What is Gauss on a conduction sphere?

Gauss on a conduction sphere is a mathematical concept that describes the distribution of electric charge on a conductive sphere. It is named after the German mathematician and physicist, Carl Friedrich Gauss.

How does Gauss's law apply to a conduction sphere?

Gauss's law states that the electric flux through any closed surface is equal to the enclosed electric charge divided by the permittivity of free space. This law can be applied to a conduction sphere by considering the electric field at any point on the surface to be perpendicular to the surface and uniform.

What is the significance of Gauss on a conduction sphere in physics?

Gauss on a conduction sphere is an important concept in physics as it allows us to understand the behavior of electric fields and charges on conductive surfaces. It also helps in calculating the electric field and charge distribution on spherical conductors, which has practical applications in devices such as capacitors and antennas.

How is Gauss on a conduction sphere different from Gauss on a non-conducting sphere?

The main difference between Gauss on a conduction sphere and Gauss on a non-conducting sphere is that the electric field on a conducting sphere is always perpendicular to the surface, while on a non-conducting sphere, it can be in any direction. Additionally, the charge distribution on a conducting sphere is always on the surface, while on a non-conducting sphere, it can be both on the surface and inside the sphere.

Can Gauss on a conduction sphere be applied to other shapes besides a sphere?

Yes, Gauss's law can be applied to any closed surface, not just a sphere. However, the calculations become more complicated for other shapes, and the electric field may not be uniform on the surface. In cases where the electric field is not uniform, the law can still be used, but it requires more advanced mathematical techniques.

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