Charge Distribution on Spherical Conductors

In summary, when a thin wire connects a big and small sphere, the larger sphere will have more charge due to its larger surface area. If the spheres had previous charges and were connected, their potentials would become equal but their charges would still be different.
  • #1
patm95
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0

Homework Statement



thin wire connecting two conductors, a big sphere and a small sphere. What sphere has the most charge?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



The charge will want to distribute itself over the entire surface area of the two conductors. Therefore because of the larger sphere having more surface area, there will be more charge on the larger sphere. IS this a logical way of approaching this problem?
 
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  • #2
If both spheres had a a previous charge and then were connected with the wire, both will now have the same potential put different charges, although the total charge won't change:

V1= k*Q1/R1 V2=k*Q2/R2

Now V'1=V'2 so: Q1'=V'*R1/K Q2'=V'*R2/K

and Q1 + Q2 = Q1' + Q2'
 
  • #3
That makes sense! I think I was on the right track. Thanks!
 

1. What is the concept of charge distribution on spherical conductors?

The concept of charge distribution on spherical conductors refers to the way that electric charges are distributed on a spherical surface. This is influenced by factors such as the shape and size of the conductor, as well as the type and amount of charge present.

2. How does charge distribution affect the electric field around a spherical conductor?

The charge distribution on a spherical conductor determines the electric field around it. The electric field lines are perpendicular to the surface of the conductor and the density of these lines is directly proportional to the charge distribution. A larger charge distribution will result in a stronger electric field.

3. Can charge distribution on a spherical conductor be uniform?

Yes, it is possible for charge distribution to be uniform on a spherical conductor. This means that the charges are evenly distributed across the surface, resulting in a symmetrical electric field. However, in most cases, charge distribution is not completely uniform due to factors such as irregularities in the surface or external influences.

4. How does the charge distribution on a spherical conductor change when an external charge is placed near it?

If an external charge is placed near a spherical conductor, the charge distribution on the conductor can become non-uniform. This is because the external charge can attract or repel the charges on the conductor, causing them to redistribute. The closer the external charge is to the conductor, the greater the impact on the charge distribution.

5. Can the charge distribution on a spherical conductor be calculated?

Yes, the charge distribution on a spherical conductor can be calculated using the Gauss's law and the concept of electric potential. By determining the electric potential at different points on the surface of the conductor, the charge distribution can be calculated. This is helpful in understanding the behavior of the electric field and potential around the conductor.

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