Coefficients of capacitance with spherical shell problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a metal sphere of radius R1 surrounded by a concentric metal shell with inner radius R2 and outer radius R3, with air as the dielectric. The objective is to calculate the coefficients of capacitance for this configuration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use coefficients of potential in their calculations but expresses uncertainty about their approach. Some participants question the definitions of the variables used and the distribution of charge on the shell. Others suggest considering the uniform charge distribution and the implications of charge balance between the sphere and shell.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding charge distribution, and there is an indication of progress as one participant mentions they have succeeded in their attempts, although they have not yet shared their findings.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the charge distribution on the shell's surfaces and the need for clarity on variable definitions, which may affect the understanding of the problem setup.

reaper929
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Homework Statement


Metal sphere of radius R1 is surrounded by a concentric metal shell of inner radius R2 and outer radius R3. The dielectric is air. Calculate coefficients of capacitance for the given setup.


Homework Equations



Picture of the problem:

14j82hl.gif


The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried arriving to the solution by using coefficients of potential. I have done the following:

\varphi_{1}=Q_{1}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{1}+Q_{2}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{3}<br /> \\\varphi_{2}=Q_{1}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{3}+Q_{2}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{3}


But it looks errorneous to me. Can anybody clarify the matter for me?
 
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reaper929 said:
\varphi_{1}=Q_{1}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{1}+Q_{2}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{3}<br /> \\\varphi_{2}=Q_{1}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{3}+Q_{2}/4\pi\epsilon_{0}R_{3}
Pls define these variables.
Bear in mind that the charge on the shell will consist of a distribution on its inner surface and another on its outer surface.
 
Can you give me a hint about how it will look?
 
reaper929 said:
Can you give me a hint about how it will look?
There will be a uniform spherical charge distribution at each of the three radii. I would take there to be equal and opposite charges on the central sphere and the enclosing shell, so the total charge is zero.
Can you develop the equations to determine how the charge is split between R2 and R3?
 
I have succeeded. I'll put the solution here tomorrow. I'm in a bit of an exam hurry right now. Thx for the hint :)
 

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