Difference Between Bound and Free charge

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between bound and free charges in electrostatics. Free charges are not exclusively found in conductors; they can also exist in a vacuum. Bound charges, which are associated with dielectrics, can become free when subjected to a strong electric field. This understanding is crucial for grasping concepts in electrostatics as outlined in Griffiths' textbook.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics principles
  • Familiarity with Griffiths' "Introduction to Electrodynamics" (2nd edition)
  • Knowledge of electric fields and dielectric materials
  • Basic concepts of charge mobility
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the behavior of charges in different materials using "Electrostatics" simulations
  • Explore the effects of electric fields on bound charges in dielectrics
  • Learn about the mathematical formulation of electric displacement field (D) in various media
  • Investigate the transition of bound charges to free charges under varying electric field strengths
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics, particularly those interested in the behavior of charges in different materials and fields.

rshalloo
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Homework Statement



So I'm having a bit of trouble getting my head around this concept and was hoping someone would be able to shed some light on it.
I know the definition. i.e free charge isn't bound to a nucleus whereas bound is. But physically what difference does this make. i.e are free charges only found on conductors, or are the chagres that I would have started learning electrostatics with (griffiths 2-3) free charges aswell?

Homework Equations



D = ε_0 E + P

The Attempt at a Solution



I would say that yes the original charges are free and that bound charges only exist in dielectrics but I'm not sure if this is the right approach.

Thanks
 
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Free charges are not necessarily found in conductors only. They may also exist, for example, in vacuum. "Free" really means just that the charge can move freely. And this division is not absolute: any bound charge becomes free if you make it subject to a sufficiently strong electric field - stronger, in fact, than the fields that make it "bound".
 

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