Confused by E=ρ/ε0 in Conductors and Dielectrics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the equation ▼. E = ρ/ε0 in the context of conductors and dielectrics. Participants explore the appropriateness of using ε0 versus ε in different materials and the implications of these choices on the electric field.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether it is correct to use ▼. E = ρ/ε0 inside a dielectric, suggesting that ε should be used instead of ε0, where ε = εr * ε0.
  • Concerns are raised about the dimensional correctness of the equation E = ρ/ε0, with references to the electric field generated by a point charge, E = q/(4 pi ε0 r²), which does not correspond to charge density.
  • One participant notes that the original post refers to the differential form of Gauss' Law, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the notation used.
  • Another participant emphasizes that when dealing with dielectrics, it is more appropriate to use the displacement field D instead of E, suggesting this approach simplifies the treatment of permittivity.
  • A participant states that under electrostatic conditions, the electric field E is defined to be zero inside a conductor, which raises questions about the application of the equation in that context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the use of ε0 versus ε in the equation and the implications for conductors and dielectrics. There is no consensus on the correctness of the equation or the appropriate context for its application.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight potential misunderstandings regarding the notation and definitions used in the equations, as well as the conditions under which the equations apply. The discussion remains open to interpretation and refinement.

neelakash
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A little bit of confusion:

Is it not correct to write ▼. E=ρ/ε0 inside a dielectric body.
As far as I know we should write ε instead of ε0.[where ε=εr*ε0]
Then why do we write ▼. E=ρ/ε0 inside a conductor?
 
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Are the dimensions correct in this equation: E=ρ/ε0 ?
I don't think so since an electric field from a charge is given by:

E = q/(4 pi ε0 r²) and since q/r² is no a charge density.

This can also be looked at from physical point of view.
 
lalbatros said:
Are the dimensions correct in this equation: E=ρ/ε0 ?
I don't think so since an electric field from a charge is given by:

E = q/(4 pi ε0 r²) and since q/r² is no a charge density.

This can also be looked at from physical point of view.

He is referring to the differential form of Gauss' Law. I think you are not seeing the [itex]\nabla[/itex] in the OP, it seems to be black inverted triangle.
 
neelakash said:
A little bit of confusion:

Is it not correct to write ▼. E=ρ/ε0 inside a dielectric body.
As far as I know we should write ε instead of ε0.[where ε=εr*ε0]
Then why do we write ▼. E=ρ/ε0 inside a conductor?

When you deal with dielectrics, use D instead of E. This would be the most general form and will be true, even when you "simplify" it to the vacuum case. Only in the end do you need to do a quick conversion to E. This way, you don't have to worry about all your permitivity.

Zz.
 
When you deal with dielectrics, use D instead of E. This would be the most general form and will be true, even when you "simplify" it to the vacuum case. Only in the end do you need to do a quick conversion to E. This way, you don't have to worry about all your permitivity.

Yes!that is a way to avoid the uneasiness.

But my question is why I can write ▼. E=ρ/ε0 inside a conductor?
 
neelakash said:
But my question is why I can write ▼. E=ρ/ε0 inside a conductor?

Because BY DEFINITION, under an electrostatic condition, E=0 inside a conductor.

Zz.
 

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