Charge velocity and current density

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating charge velocity from a given current density in cylindrical coordinates, specifically focusing on the region where the charge density is defined. The context includes the relationship between current density and volume charge density.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss methods for calculating charge velocity, including dividing current density by charge density. There are questions about the uniformity of charge density and its implications for the calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different interpretations of the charge density and its uniformity. Some have suggested using the continuity equation to relate charge density and current density, while others are questioning the assumptions made about uniformity in the problem setup.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted lack of clarity regarding the value of time to evaluate charge velocity and the nature of the charge density at the specified point. Participants are also considering the implications of the problem's constraints on their approaches.

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Homework Statement


Current density is given in cylindrical coordinates as [tex]\vec{J} = -10^6z^{1.5} \hat{z} Am^{-2} \ \mbox{in the region} \ 0 \leq r \leq 20\mu m , \mbox{and for} \ r \geq 20 \mu m, \ \vec{J} = 0[/tex]

If the volume charge density at z=0.15 m is -2000C/m^3, find the charge velocity there.


Homework Equations


[tex]\nabla \cdot \vec{J} = -\frac{\partial \rho_v}{\partial t}[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


Okay so this seems pretty straightforward. Given that J is only in the z-direction, then isn't it simply possible to find v_z by dividing J_z(0.15) by -2000 there? But this gives me 29 which isn't the answer. The answer is -2900.

Another method I tried was solving for [tex]\rho_v[/tex] using the relevant equations. This gives me [tex]\rho_v = 1.5x10^6 \int \sqrt{z} dt = 1.5x10^6\sqrt{z}t + g(z)[/tex]. But how do I find what g(z) is? And I have to solve for t as well, since it's not stated what value of t I should evaluate the charge velocity for at z=0.15.
 
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I don't think that answer is right. You are looking for dQ/dt and you know that [itex]\rho=Q/V[/tex] for a uniform charge, so then you can solve for dQ/dt from the continuity equation.[/itex]
 
I don't think the charge is uniform. Why should it be?
 
Oh, I guess I read it wrong. I suppose all the problem is really saying that only at the point z=.15 that it is uniform.

I mean, you have to know something about the charge density, or else you are shooting in the dark when it comes to finding the charge.
 
The question is as stated. I didn't omit anything.
 

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