Electric field slab, nonuniform charge density

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field generated by a non-conducting slab with a non-uniform charge density defined as ρ = αx². Using Gauss's Law, the electric field to the left of the slab is determined to be E = αL³ / (24ε₀) for x > 0. The participant expresses confusion regarding the consistency of the electric field magnitude when applying Gauss's Law to different cylindrical setups, questioning whether the method of calculation affects the results.

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Homework Statement



A rather large non conducting slab of area A and thickness d has a charge density given by ρ = αx2.
The origin is through the center of the slab. That is, it bisects the slab into two equal volumes of d/2 thickness and with an area A, with -L/2 to the left of x=0 and L/2 to the right of x=0.

A. Gaussian surface (Cylinder) is positioned such that its volume encompasses the charge contained within the slab. Apply Gauss's Law to the cylinder to determine the electric field to the left and to the right of the slab.

B. Consider another cylinder that is located such that its left face at x = 0 and its right face is outside the slab at x>L/2. Apply Gauss's Law to determine the electric field to the right of the slab.

Homework Equations



E⋅dA = Qenc / ε0

ρ = Q/V

The Attempt at a Solution



A.
[/B]
dq = ρdV = (αx2)(Adx) [ I integrated this from 0→L/2]

Q = (AαL3 )/ 24

E is constant for this configuration

EA = Q/ε0

E = αL3/ (24ε0)

Now I realize I need to take into account the other half of the slab and the "domain" on x. That is, it will be in the positive x hat direction for x > 0. But this is my question..

B.


When I went to do part B, I don't see how my set-up or my solution will change much from the above. In fact, I got the same magnitude for the electric field.

Did I make a mistake somewhere?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Does the electric field due to an assembly of charge depend on the method used to calcukate it?
 
Simon Bridge said:
Does the electric field due to an assembly of charge depend on the method used to calcukate it?

Good point :smile:
 

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