Electric field in a spherical capacitor.

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining the electric field at the surface of the inner sphere of a spherical capacitor, given a constant potential difference between the plates. It is established that the electric field will be minimized when the radius of the inner sphere (a) is half the radius of the outer sphere (b), specifically when a equals (1/2)b. The relevant equation for the potential difference is Δϕ=(Q/4πϵ_0)(1/b-1/a). Participants emphasize the importance of showing an attempt at a solution to receive assistance. The conversation underscores the relationship between the geometry of the capacitor and the resulting electric field characteristics.
Felpudio
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Homework Statement



The potential difference Δϕ between the plates of a spherical capacitor is kept constant. Show that then the electric field at the surface of the inner sphere will be a minimum if a=(1/2)b, find that minimum.
Where: a=radius of the inner sphere, b=radius of the outside sphere.

Homework Equations


The potential difference between the plates is Δϕ=(Q/4πϵ_0)(1/b-1/a)
 
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Hi Fel, welcome to PF :smile: !

There is something special about the PF homework part you need to know: the guidelines require you present an attempt at solution !

So no point in erasing part 3 of the template: we can't help until you show an effort!

The Attempt at a Solution


For a start, you might bring in an equation for the electric field at the surface of the inner sphere, expressed in a and ##\Delta \phi##.
 
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