Why is Neutrality Important in Electrostatics of Conductors with Cavities?

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In summary, when a conductor under electrostatic equilibrium has a cavity with charge inside, Gauss Law states that a negative charge is induced at the inner surface. However, we also say that a positive charge is induced at the surface, but why is this necessary for neutrality? The reason is that charge doesn't come from nowhere and if the conductor starts neutral, it has to stay neutral. Therefore, if a charge is attracted to the inner surface, it leaves an equal and opposite charge behind it.
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vibhu_baronia
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Homework Statement


when a conductor under electrostatic equlibrium with cavity has charge inside,we say -ve charge is induced at inner surface
by Gauss Law,but why do we say +ve charge induced at surface , I mean thru Gauss Law we
we say Electric field has been canceled out ,why the hell need of neutrality ??



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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welcome to pf!

hi vibhu_baronia! welcome to pf! :smile:
vibhu_baronia said:
when a conductor under electrostatic equlibrium with cavity has charge inside,we say -ve charge is induced at inner surface by Gauss Law,but why do we say +ve charge induced at surface …

charge doesn't come from nowhere

if the conductor starts neutral, then it has to stay neutral …

if a charge is attracted to the inner surface, it leaves an equal and opposite charge behind it! :wink:
 
  • #3
vibhu_baronia said:

Homework Statement


when a conductor under electrostatic equlibrium with cavity has charge inside,we say -ve charge is induced at inner surface
by gauss law,but why do we say +ve charge induced at surface , i mean thru gauss law we
we say electric field has been canceled out ,why the hell need of neutrality ??



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

thanks a lot !
 

FAQ: Why is Neutrality Important in Electrostatics of Conductors with Cavities?

What is electrostatics of conductors?

Electrostatics of conductors is the branch of physics that deals with the behavior of electric charges at rest on the surface of conductors. It involves studying the distribution of charges on a conductor, the electric field surrounding the conductor, and the potential difference between different points on the surface of the conductor.

How do charges distribute themselves on a conductor?

Charges on a conductor will distribute themselves in such a way that the electric field inside the conductor is zero. This means that the charges will accumulate on the surface of the conductor and will be evenly distributed in order to cancel out any external electric fields.

What is the difference between a conductor and an insulator in terms of electrostatics?

A conductor is a material that allows charges to move freely on its surface, while an insulator restricts the movement of charges. In terms of electrostatics, this means that charges will distribute themselves on the surface of a conductor, but will not be able to do so on an insulator.

How does the shape of a conductor affect its electrostatics?

The shape of a conductor determines the distribution of charges on its surface. For example, a pointed conductor will have a higher charge density at its tip compared to a rounded conductor. This is because the electric field is stronger at sharper points, causing charges to accumulate there.

What is the role of insulators in electrostatics of conductors?

Insulators play a crucial role in electrostatics of conductors as they prevent charges from flowing between conductors. This allows for the creation of different potentials on different conductors, which can then be used to control the movement of charges and create useful devices such as capacitors.

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