Electric Potential Inside a Metal Object

AI Thread Summary
The electric potential inside a metal object at equilibrium is uniform and equal to the potential at its surface, which can be nonzero. It is incorrect to state that the potential is zero everywhere inside the metal, as external charges can influence the potential. The potential difference between any two points inside the metal is zero due to the absence of an electric field. Confusion arises as statements 1 and 2 express similar ideas, while statements 3 and 4 also overlap in meaning. Clarifying these concepts is essential for understanding electric potential in conductive materials.
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Homework Statement


Which of the following statements about the electric potential inside a metal object are correct? Check all that apply.

The potential at any point inside a metal at equilibrium is equal to the potential at the surface, which may be nonzero.

The potential is the same at every point inside a metal at equilibrium, but it is not necessarily zero.

There may be charges on the surface of the metal or outside the metal which contribute to a nonzero potential inside the metal.

The potential at any location inside a metal at equilibrium is zero, because the electric field is zero inside the metal.

The potential difference between any two locations inside a metal at equilibrium is zero, because the electric field inside the metal is zero.
 
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this is so confusing, isn't 1 and 2 saying the same thing, and 3 and 4 also saying the same thing
 
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