Application of Gauss' law - some doubts

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of Gauss' law in calculating electric fields, specifically for an infinitely long charged wire and an infinite charged plane sheet. The user inquires why the electric flux is calculated for only one side of the curved surface of the cylinder in the case of the charged wire, while both sides of the plane caps are considered for the charged plane sheet. This highlights the differences in symmetry and field distribution in these scenarios, which are crucial for accurate calculations.

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  • Understanding of Gauss' law in electrostatics
  • Familiarity with electric field concepts
  • Knowledge of cylindrical and planar symmetry in physics
  • Basic proficiency in solving integral equations related to electric flux
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  • Study the derivation of electric fields using Gauss' law for various geometries
  • Learn about the concept of electric flux and its calculation methods
  • Explore the implications of symmetry in electrostatic problems
  • Investigate advanced applications of Gauss' law in different physical contexts
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics, particularly those looking to deepen their understanding of Gauss' law and its applications in calculating electric fields.

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Application of Gauss' law -- some doubts

Homework Statement



Revered Members,
I have attached images of applications of Gauss' law namely 1) Electric field due to an infinitely long charged wire and 2) Electric field due to an infinite charged plane sheet.
In both cases Gaussian surface is cylinder.
In the first case, the electric flux is found for curved surface and it has been done for only side that is right side of cylinder in this case
In the second case, the electric flux is found for plane caps but it has been done for both the left plane cap and right plane cap.
My doubt is , why we are doing for only one side for the curved surface and for both sides in the case of plane caps?
Attached Thumbnails

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



 

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My fourth attachment.
 

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