Can Electric Fields Pass Through Both Conductors and Insulators?

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SUMMARY

Electric fields do not pass through conductors, as they block electromagnetic waves, a principle exemplified by the Faraday cage. In contrast, insulators allow electric fields to penetrate. The behavior of conductors is due to the free movement of electrons; when an electric field is applied, electrons accelerate until the electric field within the conductor reaches zero, achieving equilibrium.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic waves
  • Familiarity with Faraday's law
  • Basic knowledge of electric fields
  • Concept of electron mobility in conductors
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Faraday cages in detail
  • Study Gaussian law and its applications in electromagnetism
  • Explore the differences between conductors and insulators in electrical applications
  • Learn about electron mobility and its impact on electric field behavior
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of electromagnetism and material properties related to electric fields.

Godwin Kessy
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Do both conductors and insulators allow electric fields through and why?
 
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No, conductors block EM waves. That is the principle behind a Faraday cage.
 
DaleSpam said:
No, conductors block EM waves. That is the principle behind a Faraday cage.

hey! Isnt that all about faradays cage is the principle under gaussians law, and by the way why conductors don't allow electric field pass through as the insulators do?
 
Godwin Kessy said:
hey! Isnt that all about faradays cage is the principle under gaussians law, and by the way why conductors don't allow electric field pass through as the insulators do?

The electrons in a conductor are free to move. If there were an electric field, the electrons would accelerate. The only way for a conductor to be at equilibrium is for the electric field to be 0.
 
Thanks man!
 

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