Find the net charge on the shell

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a cylindrical shell with a uniformly distributed charge on its curved surface. The problem asks for the net charge of the shell and the electric field at a specific point. The person seeking help is advised to use Gauss' Law and to choose an obvious Gaussian surface for evaluation. They are also asked to show their progress so far.
  • #1
dwx1
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Can anyone help me with this problem? I've been working on it for hours and can't get anywhere with it, I just have no idea how to do it at this point.

A cylindrical shell of radius 7.00 cm and length 240 cm has its charge uniformly distributed on its curved surface. The magnitude of the electric field at a point 19.0 cm radially outward from its axis (mesaured from the midpoint of the shell) is 36.0 kN/C. Find (a) the net charge on the shell and (b) the electric field at a point 4.00 cm from the axis, measured radially outward from the midpoint of the shell.

Anyone?
Thanks so much.
 
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  • #2
As the title indicates, use Gauss' Law. The Gaussian surface should be obvious to choose and easy to evaluate because of symmetry.

Show us what you've got so far.
 
  • #3


I would suggest starting by reviewing the fundamental principles of electric charge and electric fields. Once you have a solid understanding of these concepts, you can approach the problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps.

First, determine the charge density of the shell by dividing the magnitude of the electric field (36.0 kN/C) by the distance from the axis (19.0 cm). This will give you the charge per unit length on the curved surface of the shell.

Next, calculate the total charge on the curved surface by multiplying the charge density by the length of the shell (240 cm). This will give you the net charge on the shell in coulombs, which is the unit for electric charge.

To find the electric field at a point 4.00 cm from the axis, you can use the known relationship between electric field and charge density, which is given by the equation E = (kλ)/r, where k is the Coulomb's constant, λ is the charge density, and r is the distance from the axis. Using this equation, you can plug in the values you have calculated to find the electric field at this point.

If you are still struggling with the problem, I would recommend seeking assistance from a professor, tutor, or classmate who may be able to provide additional guidance or clarification. It is important to approach scientific problems with a clear understanding of the concepts involved and to break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. With persistence and a solid understanding of the principles involved, you will be able to solve this problem.
 

1. What is the concept of "net charge" on a shell?

The net charge on a shell refers to the overall electric charge present on the surface of a spherical object, such as an atom or a cell. It takes into account all the positive and negative charges present on the shell and determines the overall charge of the object.

2. How is the net charge on a shell calculated?

The net charge on a shell can be calculated by adding up all the positive and negative charges present on the surface of the shell. Positive charges, such as protons, contribute to a positive net charge, while negative charges, such as electrons, contribute to a negative net charge.

3. Why is determining the net charge on a shell important?

Determining the net charge on a shell is important because it helps us understand the overall electric properties of an object. It can also help predict how the object will interact with other charged particles or fields.

4. Can the net charge on a shell be zero?

Yes, the net charge on a shell can be zero if the number of positive charges is equal to the number of negative charges. This is often the case for atoms and molecules, which have an equal number of protons and electrons.

5. How does the net charge on a shell affect the behavior of an object?

The net charge on a shell affects the behavior of an object by determining its electric field and how it interacts with other charged particles or fields. Objects with a net positive charge will attract objects with a net negative charge, while objects with the same charge will repel each other.

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