Will a Metal Sphere's Charge be Uniformly Distributed?

In summary, the conversation discusses the distribution of extra charge on a charged metal sphere and the resulting electric field inside the sphere. The participants initially question if the charge will be uniformly distributed, with one person thinking it will be but unsure. When asked about the value of the electric field inside a charged conductor, the other person correctly answers that it would be zero if the charges were uniformly distributed on the outer surface of the sphere. They also discuss where the charges must be distributed, with the correct answer being the outer surface. The conversation ends with one person expressing gratitude for the information.
  • #1
chukie
80
0
Just wondering: If a metal sphere is charged, will the extra charge be uniformly distributed over the volume of the sphere.

i think that it will? but not sure about it being uniformly distributed.
 
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  • #2
chukie said:
Just wondering: If a metal sphere is charged, will the extra charge be uniformly distributed over the volume of the sphere.

i think that it will? but not sure about it being uniformly distributed.
What is the value of the electric field inside a [charged] conductor?
 
  • #3
Hootenanny said:
What is the value of the electric field inside a [charged] conductor?

zero...im sorry but i don't really see the connection
 
  • #4
chukie said:
zero
Correct. Having charges distributed over the entire volume of the sphere, would mean that there must be some net charge inside the sphere, which would result in a non-zero electric field. So, where must the charges be distributed?
 
  • #5
Hootenanny said:
Correct. Having charges distributed over the entire volume of the sphere, would mean that there must be some net charge inside the sphere, which would result in a non-zero electric field. So, where must the charges be distributed?

sorry, i really don't know where the charges should be distributed. I am guessing the outer surface of the sphere?
 
  • #6
chukie said:
im guessing the outer surface of the sphere?
Correct :approve:. If the charges are uniformally distributed on the outer surface of the sphere, then this results in the electric field inside the sphere being zero.
 
  • #7
great thanks so much! =)
 

1. What is meant by a "metal sphere's charge"?

A metal sphere's charge refers to the distribution of electric charge on its surface. When a metal object is charged, the electric charge is distributed evenly across its surface, resulting in a uniform distribution of charge.

2. Why is it important to know if a metal sphere's charge is uniformly distributed?

Knowing if a metal sphere's charge is uniformly distributed is important because it affects the electric field around the sphere. A uniformly distributed charge results in a uniform electric field, whereas a non-uniformly distributed charge can result in a distorted electric field.

3. How can we determine if a metal sphere's charge is uniformly distributed?

To determine if a metal sphere's charge is uniformly distributed, we can use a tool called an electric field sensor. This device measures the strength and direction of the electric field at different points around the sphere. If the readings are consistent, the charge is likely to be uniformly distributed.

4. What factors can affect the uniform distribution of charge on a metal sphere?

The shape and size of the metal sphere, as well as the material it is made of, can affect the uniform distribution of charge. Additionally, external factors such as the presence of other charged objects nearby can also impact the charge distribution.

5. How does the uniform distribution of charge on a metal sphere impact its behavior?

The uniform distribution of charge on a metal sphere results in a symmetrical electric field, which can affect the sphere's behavior in several ways. It can determine the strength of the electric field, the direction of the electric force, and how the sphere will interact with other charged objects in its surroundings.

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