E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear.

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In summary, the conversation discusses finding the electric field inside a hollow non-conducting pear with a surface charge-distribution and a charge density of zero at the top and 600 C/m^2 at the bottom. The suggested approach is to use Laplace's equation and the symmetry of the object. However, it is later determined that the electric field inside the pear is zero due to the lack of enclosed charge.
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Aesteus
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Homework Statement



Find the electric field inside a hollow non-conducting pear with a surface charge-distribution (axially symmetric too) of σ(r,θ). The charge density σ is zero at the top of the pear, and 600 C/m^2 at the bottom.

Homework Equations



I'm not sure how to approach the problem ... maybe some application of Laplace's equation.

The Attempt at a Solution



The electric field at any point inside the pear will be the superposition of x,y, and z fields. I assume that we can use symmetry about the z-axis to our advantage.
 
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  • #2
Nevermind, it's just a simple application of gauss' law on the inside of the object yielding E=0 because there is no enclosed charge. (And E-z is non-zero I believe.)
 

1. What is an "E-field" inside a non-conducting hollow pear?

The E-field, or electric field, inside a non-conducting hollow pear refers to the distribution of electric charges within the pear. It is a measure of the force that an electric charge would experience at any given point inside the pear.

2. How is the E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear determined?

The E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear can be determined using the principles of electrostatics, specifically Gauss's Law. This law states that the electric flux through a closed surface is equal to the enclosed charge divided by the permittivity of the material.

3. What factors affect the E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear?

The E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear is affected by the amount and distribution of electric charges within the pear, as well as the shape and size of the pear. The permittivity of the material also plays a role in determining the E-field.

4. Is the E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear uniform?

No, the E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear is not always uniform. It varies depending on the location within the pear and the factors mentioned above. However, in some cases, such as a spherical pear with a uniformly distributed charge, the E-field can be considered uniform.

5. How does the E-field inside a non-conducting hollow pear differ from a conducting hollow pear?

A conducting hollow pear allows charges to move freely, so the E-field inside it will be zero. On the other hand, a non-conducting hollow pear does not allow charges to move, so the E-field will be non-zero and dependent on the factors mentioned above.

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