Electric field at points from a solid copper sphere

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field at various distances from a solid copper sphere with a radius of 15.0 cm and a charge of 40 nC. At a distance of 12.0 cm from the center, the electric field is zero due to the properties of conductors, as all charge resides on the surface. At 17.0 cm, the electric field is calculated using the formula E = Q/(4πε0r2), yielding approximately 12445.4 N/C. At 75 cm, the electric field is calculated similarly, resulting in approximately 639 N/C. The discussion also suggests using Gauss's theorem to analyze the electric field if the sphere were hollow.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and Coulomb's law
  • Familiarity with Gauss's law and its applications
  • Knowledge of basic electrostatics concepts
  • Ability to perform calculations involving constants like ε0 (8.85 x 10-12 C2/(N·m2))
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Gauss's law for different charge distributions
  • Learn how to calculate electric fields for hollow conductors
  • Explore the concept of electric field lines and their significance
  • Investigate the effects of varying charge on electric field strength
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Students studying electrostatics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding electric fields generated by charged conductors.

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Homework Statement


2. A solid copper sphere of radius 15.0 cm carries a charge of 40 nC. Find the electric field (i)
12.0 cm, (ii) 17.0 cm and (iii) 75 cm from the centre of the sphere. (iv) Explain how your
answers would change if the sphere were hollow.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So I'm really just wanting to know if what I've done is correct and if not could you point my in the right direction? Thanks

(i). Since R>r and all charge resides in the surface then Q = 0. Since Q = 0 so does the electric field at 12cm from the centre.

(ii). E = Q/4(pi)(E0).r^2
= (40x10^-9) / (4(pi)*(8.85*10^-12)*.17^2))'
= 12445.4

(iii) same thing with part two but I got 639 instead

Not sure about iv so any help there would also be appreciated. Thanks!
 
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Use Gauss's theorem for part iv also!
Rest is OK.
 

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