Charge density causing an Electric Field

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the charge density ρ(r) that generates the electrostatic field E = g|r|r, where g is a constant. The user initially attempted to apply Gauss's law using the divergence of E, expressed as div E = ρ/ε0. However, they encountered difficulties in calculating the divergence in Cartesian coordinates. A suggestion was made to utilize spherical coordinates for a more straightforward calculation, referencing the Wikipedia page on divergence for guidance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics and electric fields
  • Familiarity with Gauss's law
  • Knowledge of divergence in vector calculus
  • Proficiency in spherical coordinates
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Gauss's law in electrostatics
  • Learn how to compute divergence in spherical coordinates
  • Explore the relationship between electric fields and charge density
  • Review vector calculus concepts relevant to electromagnetism
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism, as well as anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of electric fields and charge distributions.

RP8
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
So the problem is: The electrostatic field is E =g|r|r where g is a constant. Find the charge density p(r) which can generate the field?

My attempt was gauss law: divE=p0

But I'm struggling to take divE. I guess r=x+y+z?

Any advice much appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
569
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
505
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K