Does Electric Field Strength Depend on Electrode Shape and Measurement Point?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between electric field strength and electrode shape, specifically questioning whether an electric field of 20 V/m can be maintained with a 10 V potential difference over a distance of 50 cm, regardless of electrode configuration. It is established that the formula E = V/d is applicable primarily to parallel plate capacitors, but can serve as an estimation for concentric cylindrical capacitors under certain conditions. The importance of charge density types, such as linear and surface charge density, is also highlighted, indicating that the latter may be more appropriate for cylindrical configurations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric field concepts and formulas, specifically E = V/d
  • Familiarity with parallel plate and cylindrical capacitor configurations
  • Knowledge of charge density types, including linear and surface charge density
  • Basic principles of electrostatics and electric potential
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the conditions under which E = V/d is accurate for concentric cylindrical capacitors
  • Explore the differences between linear charge density and surface charge density in electrostatics
  • Study the effects of electrode shape on electric field distribution
  • Learn about the applications of electric fields in various capacitor designs
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Students and professionals in physics, electrical engineering, and anyone interested in the principles of electrostatics and capacitor design.

quietrain
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hi, i have a question.

if electric field is 20V/m for a 10 V parallel plates potential difference of distance 50cm, in accordance with the formula E = change in V / d then does it mean that as long as i have a 10 V potential difference, regardless of the orientation of the plates, like if i change the 10 V difference to a small +ve cylinder and a large -ve cylinder encompassing it, does the E field still remains as 20V/m if the distance is kept at 50cm?

so in other words, does the electric field E remain the same as long as the Volt difference i use is kept at 10V and the distance is 50cm? that means 10V difference at a distance of 50cm always give me E field of 20V/m?

oh by the way, does it matter if i measure the distance from the (-ve)0 V plate or from the (+ve)10V plate if i want to use in the formula E = V/d?

thanks!
 
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That equation is only valid for parallel plate capacitors. You could probably use it as an estimation for concentric cylindrical plate capacitors though one would want to investigate the conditions under which the equation would still be accurate.

As for the last question, how would it matter?
 
ah i see... thanks

so would it be ok to use the linear charge density for this cylindrical example or is that only used for long thin rods? or am i suppose to use surface charge density?
 

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