Charge on the surface of a conducting sphere.

Thread starter 123xx
Start date Feb 8, 2010
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Charge Conducting Conducting sphere Sphere Surface

In summary, the charge on the surface of a conducting sphere is the amount of electric charge evenly distributed on the outer surface of the sphere due to its conductive nature. This charge creates an electric field that is perpendicular to the surface and is affected by the amount of charge, radius, material, and external fields. The charge distributes itself evenly due to repulsion between like charges and can be changed by adding or removing electrons through various methods.

Feb 8, 2010

123xx

I need to find the charge and charge density on the surface of a conducting sphere of radius r=0.15m and of a potential of V=200V.

I know the surface charge density, which is Q/A. The surface area is 0.28274, but I can't find the charge.

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Feb 9, 2010

rl.bhat

Homework Helper

Potential of a spherical conductor is
V = (1/4πεο)*Q/R.
Find Q, then surface charge density.

1. What is the definition of charge on the surface of a conducting sphere?

The charge on the surface of a conducting sphere is the amount of electric charge present on the outer surface of the sphere. This charge is distributed evenly on the surface due to the conductive nature of the material.

2. How is the charge on the surface of a conducting sphere related to its electric field?

The charge on the surface of a conducting sphere creates an electric field that is perpendicular to the surface at all points. This electric field is directly proportional to the charge and decreases with distance from the surface.

3. What factors affect the charge on the surface of a conducting sphere?

The charge on the surface of a conducting sphere is affected by the amount of charge present, the radius of the sphere, and the material of the sphere. It is also affected by any external electric fields that may be present.

4. How does the charge on the surface of a conducting sphere distribute itself?

The charge on the surface of a conducting sphere distributes itself evenly due to the repulsion between like charges. This means that the charge will be located at the outer surface of the sphere and will be evenly spread out over the surface.

5. Can the charge on the surface of a conducting sphere be changed?

Yes, the charge on the surface of a conducting sphere can be changed by adding or removing electrons from the surface. This can be done through various methods such as rubbing the surface or connecting the sphere to a power source.