Electric field inside a charged dielectric

In summary, the conversation is discussing a problem involving a charged dielectric plate with a thickness t and permittivity e. The question is to obtain an expression for the electric field inside the dielectric, with one person suggesting that there is no field within the dielectric due to equal and opposite field contributions from the two sides of the plate. However, they question if this answer is too simplistic and may have missed something. The other person confirms that they are correct if the plates are infinite in size.
  • #1
ijustlost
22
0
I've been thinking about this problem a while and can't seem to get anywhere.

A charged dielectric plate of thickness t has permittivity e. The 2 surfaces each have a surface charge density +s. Obtain an expression for the electric field inside the dielectric.

I think the answer is be that there is no field within the dielectric, as the field contributions from the two sides of the plate are equal but in opposite directions. But this seems to simple. Am I correct or have I completely missed something out?
 
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  • #2
I think that's it.
 
  • #3
No, if the plates are infinite in size you are totally correct.
 

FAQ: Electric field inside a charged dielectric

1. What is an electric field inside a charged dielectric?

An electric field inside a charged dielectric is a region in space where the electric force acts on charged particles. It is created by the presence of a charged dielectric material, which is a material that can become polarized when placed in an electric field.

2. How is the electric field inside a charged dielectric different from the electric field in a vacuum?

The electric field inside a charged dielectric is different from the electric field in a vacuum because the presence of the dielectric material causes the electric field lines to become distorted and the strength of the field to decrease. This is due to the polarization of the material, which creates an opposing electric field.

3. What factors affect the strength of the electric field inside a charged dielectric?

The strength of the electric field inside a charged dielectric is affected by the type of material, the magnitude of the charge on the material, and the distance between the charged material and the point where the electric field is being measured. It is also affected by the dielectric constant of the material, which is a measure of its ability to become polarized.

4. How does the electric field inside a charged dielectric affect the movement of charged particles?

The electric field inside a charged dielectric can affect the movement of charged particles by exerting a force on them. This force can either attract or repel the particles, depending on their charge and the direction of the electric field. The presence of a dielectric material can also cause the electric field to become distorted, which can affect the path of the charged particles.

5. How is the electric field inside a charged dielectric used in practical applications?

The electric field inside a charged dielectric is used in various practical applications, such as in capacitors, where it helps to store and release electrical energy. It is also used in electronics, such as in transistors and semiconductors, where the electric field can be manipulated to control the flow of electrons. Additionally, it is used in medical equipment, such as MRI machines, to create images of the human body.

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