Electric Field in and outside a cylinder

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the electric field generated by an infinitely long charged cylinder, specifically examining the electric field inside (r < R) and outside (r > R) the cylinder. Participants reference relevant formulas and concepts from electrostatics, including charge density and Gauss' law.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Gauss' law to determine the electric field in different regions relative to the charged cylinder. There is mention of the symmetry of the problem and the relationship between electric field and flux.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the application of Gauss' law and the implications of symmetry in the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need for more detailed reasoning or clarification of confusion before further assistance can be provided.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the forum's rules regarding homework help, indicating that participants are encouraged to express their understanding and confusion rather than simply asking for solutions.

reising1
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An infinitely long cylinder has charge density lamda and has a radius R.

What is E when r < R and when r > R.

I know the formula for an infinite line of charge is
E = (lamda) / (2 pi epsilon not * r)

Thanks!
 
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reising1 said:
An infinitely long cylinder has charge density lamda and has a radius R.

What is E when r < R and when r > R.

I know the formula for an infinite line of charge is
E = (lamda) / (2 pi epsilon not * r)

Thanks!

do you know Gauss' law?
 
Yes. Flux = q enclosed / Epislon
 
reising1 said:
Yes. Flux = q enclosed / Epislon

Hah. Well, have you tried to apply Gauss' law to this problem? The forum rules forbid posters from doing your homework for you. Instead, we are here to guide you. You won't get any help without posting the source of your confusion or posting work.

"here is the problem, thanks" is not acceptable
 
Okay well I know that the integral of E dotted with dA is the flux, which can be simplifed to EA due to the symmetry of the problem. And the area would be equivlant to the pi r squared times length. And q enclosed would be lamda times L.
 

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