Electric flux density and confusion about units

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the concept of electric flux density, defined as electric flux per unit area, with the SI unit of N/C. However, the formula for electric flux density, D = εE, indicates that the SI unit is C/m², leading to confusion regarding unit consistency. The relationship between the displacement field flux (Φ_D) and electric field flux (Φ_E) is established, where Φ_D = εΦ_E, resolving the unit discrepancy. This highlights the importance of precise terminology in understanding electric flux density and its associated units.

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  • Understanding of electric fields and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concept of electric flux
  • Knowledge of the SI unit system
  • Basic grasp of vector calculus in physics
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  • Study the relationship between electric flux and electric field strength
  • Learn about the displacement field and its applications in electromagnetism
  • Explore the derivation and implications of the formula D = εE
  • Investigate the role of permittivity in electric field calculations
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sunil36
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My general understanding of electric flux density is 'electric flux per unit area'. This gives the SI unit N/C. But According the formula of electric flux density, D=eplison*E, the SI unit is C/m^2. How come the dimension in both cases not matching if both are true?
 
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I think there's some terminological confusion. If you're planning on calling ##\vec D## the flux density then the corresponding flux is the flux of the displacement field, ##\Phi_D=\int \vec D\cdot d\vec S##. That's related to the flux we discussed in your other thread, ##\Phi_E=\int \vec E\cdot d\vec S##, as ##\Phi_D=\varepsilon \Phi_E##. I think that should sort out the units.
 
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