Calculating Electric Potential on a Conducting Sphere with a Point Charge

In summary, a point charge q is placed at a distance 2r from the center O of a conducting charged sphere of radius r. Due to the induced charges on the sphere, the electric potential at point P on the surface of the sphere can be found by calculating Vnet = Vinduced + Vcharge. However, the method for calculating Vnet is unclear and the technique of imaging may be needed to solve the problem.
  • #1
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A point charge q is placed at a distance 2r from center O of a conducting charged sphere of radius r .Due to the induced charges on the sphere ,find electric potential at point P on surface of sphere [if Kq/r=18V]

I tried this
at point P
Vnet=Vinduced+Vcharge
now Vcharge=kq/3r
but I cannot find way to calculate Vnet to find Vinduced
Assume a uncharged sphere of radius r and a charge q is kept at distance 2r from center and P is point diametrically opposite to q See second image
 

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  • #2
Consider an element of induced charge qi on the sphere. Where might it be located? What is its contribution to the potential at the centre of the sphere? What is the total contribution of all such induced charge to the potential at the centre of the sphere?
 
  • #3
haruspex said:
Consider an element of induced charge qi on the sphere. Where might it be located? What is its contribution to the potential at the centre of the sphere? What is the total contribution of all such induced charge to the potential at the centre of the sphere?
We need the potential on the surface, not the center, of the sphere.
Only way I know of approaching this problem is via imaging. Are you (the OP) familiar with that technique?
 
  • #4
rude man said:
We need the potential on the surface, not the center, of the sphere.
It's a conductor, no internal charges, and OP is first trying to find Vnet at P.
 

FAQ: Calculating Electric Potential on a Conducting Sphere with a Point Charge

1. What is electrostatics?

Electrostatics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of electric charges at rest and the forces between them.

2. What is an electrostatics problem?

An electrostatics problem is a type of physics problem that involves analyzing the interactions and behavior of stationary electric charges.

3. How do you solve an electrostatics problem?

To solve an electrostatics problem, you need to identify the known and unknown quantities, apply the relevant equations and principles (such as Coulomb's law and the principle of superposition), and solve for the unknown quantity.

4. What are some real-life applications of electrostatics?

Electrostatics has many practical applications, including in the design of electronic devices, air purifiers, photocopiers, and inkjet printers. It also plays a role in phenomena such as lightning, static cling, and the Van de Graaff generator.

5. What is the difference between electrostatics and electrodynamics?

Electrostatics deals with stationary electric charges, while electrodynamics involves the study of moving electric charges and the interaction between electric and magnetic fields.

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