Charge Distribution on Conducting Spherical Shell

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the charge distribution of a conducting spherical shell with a positive point charge placed at its center. The inner surface of the shell, located at radius R1, accumulates a negative charge density due to the attraction of free electrons in the metal shell towards the positive charge. Conversely, the outer surface at radius R2 acquires a positive charge density, resulting from the repulsion of electrons. This charge distribution ensures that the net charge of the shell remains zero, adhering to electrostatic principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with Gauss's Law
  • Knowledge of electric field concepts
  • Basic principles of conductors in electrostatic equilibrium
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Gauss's Law applications in spherical symmetry
  • Learn about electric field calculations in conductive materials
  • Explore charge density concepts in electrostatics
  • Investigate the behavior of free electrons in conductors under electric fields
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Students studying electrostatics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding charge distribution in conductive materials.

pyroknife
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Homework Statement


A conducting spherical shell that has zero net charge has an inner radius R1 and an outer radius R2. A positive point charge q is placed at the center of the cell. The 1st part was to find the electric fields at the 3 diff places. The part I need help on is where we have to find the charge density on inner surface r=R1 and outer surface r=R2.

what I have a question about is. The signs would be opposite for inner and outer. Is the one entering (inner surface) negative and the one leaving (outer surface) positive? If so, why is it like that?
 
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pyroknife said:
what I have a question about is. The signs would be opposite for inner and outer. Is the one entering (inner surface) negative and the one leaving (outer surface) positive? If so, why is it like that?

There is a positive charge at the centre. Does it attract or repel the free electrons in the metal shell? So what kind of excess charge accumulates at the inner surface of the shell?


ehild
 

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