Linear superposition for electric field

In summary, the conversation discusses the problem of finding the E field everywhere due to a large non-conducting slab with a charge density of ρ = αx2 and a large thin plate with a uniform charge density sigma on the left side of the slab. The solution involves breaking the problem down into four regions and applying the superposition principle to find the E field in each region. It is mentioned that d and L may refer to the same thing, and there is some uncertainty about whether x2 was meant to be x2.
  • #1
AKJ1
43
0

Homework Statement



A rather large non conducting slab of area A and thickness d has a charge density given by ρ = αx2.
The origin is through the center of the slab. That is, it bisects the slab into two equal volumes of d/2 thickness and with an area A, with -L/2 to the left of x=0 and L/2 to the right of x=0.

Suppose there is a large thin plate of UNIFORM charge density sigma on the left side of the aforementioned slab. What is the E field (everywhere) due to this system? Derive an expression for the electric field for the thin plate and then apply the superposition principle. Also give the domains on X for the regions chosen.

Note: You will not have just one answer.

The Attempt at a Solution



I found the E field everywhere due to the slab & due to the thin plate. Now for the E field everywhere, I should break this problem down into four regions and find the superposition of E field in these regions (due to slab and plate):

x<-d/2

-d/2 < x < 0

0<x<d/2

x>d/2

Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
I would expect that you can combine regions 2 and 3 into a single formula, but splitting them up is not wrong.

d and L are the same thing?

Is x2 meant to be x2?
 

1. What is linear superposition for electric field?

Linear superposition for electric field is a principle in electromagnetism which states that the total electric field at any point in space is equal to the sum of the individual electric fields produced by each source charge.

2. How does linear superposition work?

This principle works by adding the individual vectors of the electric fields produced by each charge at a given point. This results in a net electric field that takes into account the direction and magnitude of each individual field.

3. What is the significance of linear superposition in electric field calculations?

Linear superposition is crucial in solving problems involving multiple charges and their electric fields. It simplifies the calculations and allows for a systematic approach to solving complex electric field problems.

4. Can linear superposition be applied to all types of electric fields?

Yes, linear superposition can be applied to all types of electric fields, including those produced by point charges, continuous distributions of charges, and even time-varying fields.

5. Are there any limitations to using linear superposition for electric field calculations?

While linear superposition is a useful tool, it does have its limitations. It assumes that the electric field is not affected by the presence of other charges, which may not be the case in certain situations, such as when the charges are close together.

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