Distribution of positive charge in conductors

In summary, the distribution of positive charge in conductors is not uniform and is affected by the repulsion between like charges and the electric field within the conductor. The shape and material of the conductor can greatly impact the distribution of charge, and it can be manipulated through external forces for specific purposes.
  • #1
jperentosh
8
0
In conductors, how does the excess of positive charge distribute itself across the surface of the material?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Conductors remain charge-neutral overall--there is no excess. Furthermore, it is electrons that are free to move in conductors such as metals, not positive charge carriers. To get started, take a look at the Wikipedia article on Electrical conduction, or click on "*conductor, electric" in the topic list at
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/HFrame.html
 
  • #3
Hole charges?
 
  • #4
HowlerMonkey said:
Hole charges?

What about them?

Zz.
 
  • #5


The distribution of positive charge in conductors is governed by the principles of electrostatics. When a conductor is charged, the excess positive charge will distribute itself across the surface of the material in a way that minimizes the overall electrostatic potential energy of the system.

This means that the positive charge will spread evenly across the surface of the conductor, with a higher concentration of charge at points of curvature or sharp edges. This is because the charge experiences a higher repulsive force at these points, causing it to spread out more.

Additionally, the distribution of positive charge on a conductor is affected by the electric field surrounding it. If the conductor is in the presence of an external electric field, the positive charge will redistribute itself to cancel out the field within the conductor. This results in a more uniform distribution of charge on the surface.

It is important to note that the distribution of positive charge on a conductor is not static and can change depending on the external conditions. For example, if the conductor is part of a circuit and a current is flowing through it, the distribution of charge may change to accommodate the flow of electrons.

In summary, the excess positive charge in conductors will distribute itself in a way that minimizes the overall electrostatic potential energy of the system, resulting in a uniform distribution on the surface of the material.
 

What is the distribution of positive charge in conductors?

The distribution of positive charge in conductors is not uniform. It is higher on the surface of the conductor and decreases towards the center. This is due to the repulsion between like charges causing them to spread out as far as possible.

Why is the distribution of positive charge in conductors not uniform?

The distribution of positive charge in conductors is not uniform because of the repulsion between like charges. This phenomenon is known as the "skin effect" and is a result of the electric field within the conductor.

How does the shape of a conductor affect the distribution of positive charge?

The shape of a conductor can greatly affect the distribution of positive charge. For example, a sphere has a more uniform distribution of charge compared to a cylinder, where the charge is more concentrated at the ends.

Is the distribution of positive charge affected by the material of the conductor?

Yes, the distribution of positive charge is affected by the material of the conductor. Different materials have different abilities to conduct electricity and thus can impact the distribution of charge. For example, a highly conductive material like copper will have a more uniform distribution of charge compared to a less conductive material like rubber.

Can the distribution of positive charge in conductors be manipulated?

Yes, the distribution of positive charge in conductors can be manipulated through the use of external forces such as applying an electric field or changing the shape of the conductor. This can be useful in applications such as electronic circuits where the distribution of charge needs to be precisely controlled.

Similar threads

  • Electromagnetism
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
14
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
381
Replies
2
Views
647
Replies
10
Views
995
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
11
Views
640
Replies
11
Views
740
Replies
11
Views
878
Replies
8
Views
974
Replies
4
Views
811
Back
Top