What Is the Electric Field Outside a Grounded Square Conductor?

In summary, the problem presents a long metal pipe with a square cross-section, where three sides are grounded and the fourth is maintained at a constant potential. The question is to determine the electric field just outside the section opposite to the constant potential side. One possible solution is to solve the Laplace equation under the given boundary condition, but there may also be an intuitive solution involving capacitance effects. A drawing of the problem may be helpful in visualizing the scenario.
  • #1
arpon
235
16

Homework Statement


A long metal pipe of square cross-section is grounded on three sides, while the fourth (which is insulated from the rest) is maintained at constant potential ##V_0##. What is the electric field just outside the section opposite to ##V_0##?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


This problem can possibly be solved by solving the Laplace equation under the given boundary condition. But is there any intuitive solution to this?
 
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  • #2
You might want to post some type of drawing. However, I suspect you have a capacitance effect and that is probably your starting point.
 
  • #3
CalcNerd said:
You might want to post some type of drawing. However, I suspect you have a capacitance effect and that is probably your starting point.
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FAQ: What Is the Electric Field Outside a Grounded Square Conductor?

1. What is an electric field outside a conductor?

An electric field outside a conductor is a region of space where electrically charged particles experience a force. This force is caused by the presence of an electrically charged conductor, such as a metal object, which creates an electric field around it.

2. How is the strength of the electric field outside a conductor determined?

The strength of the electric field outside a conductor is determined by the amount of charge on the conductor and the distance from the surface of the conductor. The closer the distance, the stronger the electric field will be.

3. Is the electric field outside a conductor uniform?

No, the electric field outside a conductor is not uniform. It varies depending on the distance from the surface of the conductor. The electric field is strongest near the surface and decreases as the distance increases.

4. How does the shape of a conductor affect the electric field outside of it?

The shape of a conductor can affect the electric field outside of it. For example, a pointed conductor will have a stronger electric field at the tip compared to a rounded conductor. This is due to the concentration of charges at the pointed tip.

5. Is the electric field outside a conductor affected by the material it is made of?

Yes, the material of a conductor can affect the electric field outside of it. Conductors made of different materials may have different amounts of charge and can therefore create different electric fields. Additionally, the conductivity of the material can affect the strength of the electric field.

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