Capacitance capacitor parallel plate with dielectric (Gauss)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor with a dielectric material using Gauss's Law. The key equations involved are the displacement field D, electric field E, and polarization P, with the relationships defined as D = εE and C = Q/V. The user encounters confusion regarding the electric field outside the capacitor plates, which is assumed to be zero under the infinite plate approximation. The error identified pertains to the misunderstanding of the relationship between D and E, emphasizing the need for clarity in applying Gauss's Law.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Gauss's Law in electrostatics
  • Familiarity with electric displacement field (D) and electric field (E) concepts
  • Knowledge of capacitance calculations and the formula C = Q/V
  • Basic principles of dielectric materials and their polarization effects
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of capacitance for parallel plate capacitors with dielectrics
  • Study the relationship between electric displacement field (D) and electric field (E) in dielectric materials
  • Learn about the application of Gauss's Law in different geometries
  • Explore the effects of varying dielectric constants on capacitance values
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, electrical engineers, and anyone involved in capacitor design and analysis.

Ark236
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Homework Statement


I have an elementary doubt with the calculation of the capacitance of a capacitor of parallel plates that has a dielectric in the middle.

https://ibb.co/b0W4BQ

Homework Equations



∫D⋅ds=Q
D=E+γP
C=Q/V

The Attempt at a Solution


Suppose the top plate has a positive charge and the bottom plate has a negative charge.

To calculate vector displacement in the upper plate, we occupy the gauss law, use a Gaussian box. On the outside of the top plate the polarization P is 0 and there is an electric field E. At the bottom of the plate there is an electric field E and a polarization P due to the dielectric.
If we consider only the top plate:

∫D⋅ds=[D][/out]A+[D][/down]A=Q

[D][/out]=E
[D][/down]=E+γP

If we consider the complete system (both plates)

∫D⋅ds=2*[D][/out]A+2*[D][/down]A=Q

[D][/out]=E
[D][/down]=E+γP

The field inside is 2 E.

What is the error, I do not understand. D is zero outside from capacitor?
Thank you
 
Last edited:
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At a first glance I see some equation problems since D is not equal to E D=epsilonxE. On the other side the elctric field outside the plates is considered to be 0 since the infinite parallel plates asumption is used when Gauss Law is applied. You should check your relevant equations
 

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