What is the potential difference between two concentric charged spheres?

In summary, the conversation discusses a scenario where a metal sphere with charge q=1 μC and radius r=3 cm is concentric with a larger metal sphere with charge Q=2 μC and radius R=5 cm. The question asks for the magnitude of the potential difference between the spheres and the charge on each sphere if they are connected with a wire. The correct calculation for the potential difference is ΔV=k*(Q/R - q/r)=7.8E5. This represents the work it takes to move a unit of charge from one sphere to the other.
  • #1
i_hate_math
150
2

Homework Statement


In the figure, a metal sphere with charge q=https://edugen.wileyplus.com/edugen/shared/assignment/test/session.quest2561214entrance1_N10031.mml?size=14&ver=1471825532267&algorithm=1&rnd=1471825539091 μC and radius r=https://edugen.wileyplus.com/edugen/shared/assignment/test/session.quest2561214entrance1_N1003F.mml?size=14&ver=1471825532267&algorithm=1&rnd=1471825539091 cm is concentric with a larger metal sphere with charge Q=https://edugen.wileyplus.com/edugen/shared/assignment/test/session.quest2561214entrance1_N1004D.mml?size=14&ver=1471825532267&algorithm=1&rnd=1471825539091 μC and radius R=https://edugen.wileyplus.com/edugen/shared/assignment/test/session.quest2561214entrance1_N1005B.mml?size=14&ver=1471825532267&algorithm=1&rnd=1471825539091 cm. (a) What is the magnitude of the potential difference between the spheres? If we connect the spheres with a wire, what then is the charge on (b) the smaller sphere and (c) the larger sphere?

Homework Equations


V=k*(q/r)

The Attempt at a Solution


I got b and c correct, it is just part a that I am confused. The question ask for the potential difference between the two sphere, so i simply took the difference. ΔV=k*(Q/R - q/r)=7.8E5, please help me understand why this is not the correct answer. Thanks
 

Attachments

  • 13632917369600_44302487666683643.jpg
    13632917369600_44302487666683643.jpg
    8.3 KB · Views: 518
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The potential change (difference) is the work it takes to move a unit of charge from one point to another. How would you calculate that work?
 

FAQ: What is the potential difference between two concentric charged spheres?

1. What is electric potential?

Electric potential is the amount of work needed to move a unit positive charge from one point to another against an electric field. It is measured in volts (V) and is a scalar quantity.

2. What is an electric potential problem?

An electric potential problem is a type of physics problem that involves calculating the electric potential at a given point or determining the behavior of charged particles in an electric field. These problems often require knowledge of concepts such as Coulomb's law, electric field, and potential energy.

3. How is electric potential different from electric field?

Electric potential is a measure of the potential energy per unit charge at a point in an electric field, while electric field is a measure of the force exerted on a charged particle at a given point. Electric potential is a scalar quantity, while electric field is a vector quantity.

4. What are some real-life applications of electric potential?

Electric potential has many practical applications, such as in the design of electronic circuits, electric motors, and generators. It is also important in understanding the behavior of lightning and the operation of batteries and other electrical devices.

5. How is electric potential related to voltage?

Electric potential and voltage are closely related. Voltage is a measure of electric potential difference between two points in an electric field. In other words, it is the difference in electric potential energy per unit charge between two points. The unit for voltage is also volts (V).

Similar threads

Need help finding angular momentum of a particle
Replies
4
Views
1K
Net electric flux through a Gaussian cube
Replies
3
Views
2K
I''What is the optimal resistance for maximizing battery terminal voltage?
Replies
2
Views
1K
Charge on a grounded conducting sphere in a uniform electric field, after ungrounding and movement
Replies
1
Views
692
Induced charge on a conducting sphere sliced by a plane
Replies
2
Views
559
When Will the Proton Meet the Rear of the Ship?
Replies
3
Views
2K
Electric field external to Conducting Hollow Sphere with charge inside
Replies
23
Views
1K
Kinetic and potential energy of a particle attracted by charged sphere
Replies
6
Views
1K
Electric Potential inside an insulating sphere
Replies
11
Views
4K
Center of mass project exploding at max height
Replies
8
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top