Electric field between two large sheets

AI Thread Summary
To determine the required surface charge density (δ) for two large sheets to hold an oil droplet stationary, the charge on the droplet is calculated as q=8.01x10^-19 C. The relationship between the electric field (E) and surface charge density is given by δ=q(sheet)/A. The force due to gravity (F=mg) must equal the electric force (qE) acting on the droplet. To find an expression for E in terms of δ, applying Gauss's law with a Gaussian surface around one plate is recommended. Using superposition can help in calculating the overall electric field between the sheets.
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Homework Statement


Two very large horizontal sheets are 4.25 cm apart and carry equal but opposite uniform surface charge densities of magnitude δ. You want to use these sheets to hold stationary in the region between them an oil droplet of mass 374 micrograms that carries an excess of five electrons. Assume that the drop is in vacuum.
What should δ be?

Homework Equations


qE = F

The Attempt at a Solution


I've solved for the charge on the oil droplet to be q=8.01x10^-19 C and I know that δ=q(sheet)/A.
Also, since the problem implies that gravity is involved, F=mg=qE

I can't get an expression for E that includes δ. I have a feeling this involves an integral but I don't know how exactly to set it up. Can I get some advice?

Thanks!
 
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You're definitely doing well so far. For the E-field, try starting with Gauss's law and Gaussian surface on one of the plates. You can always use superposition to get the overall E-field.
 
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