Can someone answer a quick question for me about e field by spheres.

In summary, for a sphere with radius R and charge uniformly distributed throughout, the electric field inside the sphere will be 0 if R is equal to or greater than r. This is because, according to Gauss's Law, if all the charge is on the surface of the sphere, there is no electric field inside. However, if the charge is distributed through the solid sphere, the electric field will not be 0 inside.
  • #1
charlies1902
162
0
So let's say a sphere has radius R and you want to find the e field where R>r and R is equal to or greater than r.

would the e field for R>r just be 0?
Wouldn't that also mean it's 0 for R is equal to or greater than r, or does it change because it's EQUAL or greater?
 
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  • #2
The answers depends on how the charge is distributed through the solid sphere.
 
  • #3
sorry, uniformly distributed thorughout the sphere.
 
  • #4
OK, in that case, the electric field wouldn't be 0 inside the sphere. You can calculate what it is by applying Gauss's Law.
 
  • #5
i think i got the sphere confused with spherical shell because in the book it keeps switching back and forth. For spherical spheres it would be 0 right for points within the sphere?
 
  • #6
Yes, if all the charge is on uniformly distributed on the surface of the sphere, there's no electric field inside.
 

1. What is E field?

The E field, or electric field, is a physical quantity that describes the influence of an electric force on a charged particle. It is a vector field that exists in the space surrounding charged particles and is responsible for the movement and behavior of electrically charged objects.

2. How is the E field calculated?

The E field is calculated using the equation E = F/q, where E is the electric field, F is the electric force, and q is the charge of the particle. This equation takes into account the strength of the electric force and the distance between the charged particles.

3. What are spheres in relation to the E field?

Spheres are objects that have a symmetrical shape, usually round or spherical in nature. In relation to the E field, spheres are often used as models to analyze the behavior of electric fields and their effects on charged particles.

4. How do spheres affect the E field?

Spheres can have a significant impact on the E field due to their shape and symmetry. For example, a charged sphere will have a uniform E field both inside and outside its surface, while a charged point will have a much more complex E field. Spheres can also be used to shield or redirect the E field in certain situations.

5. Can the E field of spheres be manipulated?

Yes, the E field of spheres can be manipulated through changes in the charge of the sphere, the distance between the sphere and other charged objects, and the placement of the sphere in relation to other objects. This allows for control and manipulation of the E field and its effects on charged particles.

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