Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around calculating the radius required to achieve a specific electric field strength of 1 x 106 V/m on the surface of a spherical inner grid within a conductive vacuum chamber. Participants explore various methods and considerations related to this calculation, including voltage, chamber dimensions, and the nature of the grid.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant seeks assistance in calculating the radius needed for a specific electric field strength, expressing uncertainty about the equations used.
- Another participant questions the purpose of achieving such a high electric field, suggesting it may relate to amateur fusion.
- Participants discuss the importance of the voltage and the radius of the vacuum chamber in determining the sphere's size.
- Concerns are raised about the effectiveness of using a wire mesh for the grid, with assertions that the field strength would be influenced more by the wire's radius than the sphere's radius.
- A participant clarifies that they are using standard wire loops rather than a wire mesh, which prompts further discussion on the implications for field strength.
- Calculations are provided indicating that with a 40 kV DC voltage and a 5-inch chamber radius, a sphere radius of 85 mm is necessary to maintain the desired electric field strength.
- One participant acknowledges a misunderstanding regarding the grid's geometry, realizing that approximating it as a sphere was incorrect due to its wire composition.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of the proposed grid design and the implications of using wire versus a solid sphere. There is no consensus on the best approach to achieve the desired electric field strength, and multiple competing perspectives remain.
Contextual Notes
Participants mention specific voltage levels and dimensions, but there are unresolved assumptions regarding the grid's configuration and its impact on the electric field calculations.