Electric Fields Lines of a pair of Finite Parallel Plates

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the electric field lines of a pair of finite parallel plates, specifically focusing on the characteristics of the electric field between the plates and near their edges.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the uniformity of the electric field between the plates and question the reasoning behind the magnitude of the electric field being double that of a single plate. There is also discussion on the charge distribution on the plates, particularly the differences between the flat surfaces and the edges.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of electric fields and charge distributions. Some guidance has been offered regarding the principles of superposition and charge density, but there is no explicit consensus on the visualization of these concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the implications of charge distribution and electric field behavior, particularly in relation to the geometry of the plates. The concept of "corona discharge" and its relation to charge density is also introduced, indicating a complexity in the discussion.

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Homework Statement


Comment on the electric field lines of a pair of finite parallel plates (a) between the plates and (b) near the edges of the plates.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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between the plates (basically near centers of plates) in is uniform, directed from + plate to - plate (obvious)
magnitude is double the mag due to any 1 plate

near the edge it will be non uniform
 
"magnitude is double the mag due to any 1 plate"
I don't understand this. Why is that so?

Also, is it correct to say that
(a) between the plates the distribution of charges will be uniform due to its flat nature, but (b) on the edges of the plates the distribution of charges will not be uniform because alone sharp edges charges tend to come together more closely than they typically do on a smooth surface
 
The magnitude is double because the electric field follows superposition and you have a plate that is positively charged (electric field outward) and a plate that is negatively charged (electric field inward).

I know that the fringing field is non-linear but I've never understood the flux density thing since there can be an infinite amount but the lines can't cross. I just can't visualize it so I stick with the results of the equations...
 
TypeFun said:
Also, is it correct to say that
(a) between the plates the distribution of charges will be uniform due to its flat nature, but (b) on the edges of the plates the distribution of charges will not be uniform because alone sharp edges charges tend to come together more closely than they typically do on a smooth surface

in a way you are right
This phenomena is called "corona discharge"
according to it ... charge 'density' is inversely proportional to the radius of surface.
the charge density will be more on th edges but on any flat surface will be same.

can you tell where "charge" will be maximum ?
 

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