In a certain region of space, the electric field E is uniform.

xxaznitex

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

In a certain region of space, the electric field E/vec is uniform.
Why is the charge density in this region zero?
Assume in a region of space where there is no charge, must E/vec be uniform?

2. Relevant equations

Gauss's Law

3. The attempt at a solution

I don't really know why a uniform electric field makes the charge density zero... The only thing that I know I could do would be to make this "area" so large (to infinity) that the resulting density would be zero. Can anyone explain to me why?

LowlyPion

If there was a charge would the field be uniform?

xxaznitex

No because the charge would cause a distortion of the field?

LowlyPion

That would be my thinking.

What about a region with no charge? Must the field be uniform?

xxaznitex

Hmm, I would say no, because the charge can be right outside the area with no charge..?

LowlyPion

Precisely.