Electric potential of a spherical conductor with a cavity

In summary, the potential on the outer surface of a conductor will be affected by the charge distribution of both the conductor and the cavity. If the centers of the cavity and the hollow sphere do not coincide, the charge distribution on the outer surface of the conductor will be uniform, but non-uniform for the cavity part. It is unclear how the charge distribution will affect the potential, and how it would change if no charge were given. It is recommended to provide more context or a figure to better understand the situation.
  • #1
Bilbo B
9
1
Thread moved from the technical forums, so no Homework Template is shown.
Summary:: If the conductor is having a cavity and is provided with some charge, with the cavity too having some charge then how the potential will be affected on the outer surface of the conductor.
The center of cavity and the center of hollow sphere does not coincide.

As if their centers do not coincide then the charge distribution on the outer surface of conductor will be uniform but non-uniform for the cavity part.
But how will the charge distribution affects the potential and how it would change if no charge were given to it?
 
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  • #2
Is this another schoolwork question? Can you at least post the figure that goes with this question, so we can try to decode the situation? Thank you.
 

1. What is the formula for calculating the electric potential of a spherical conductor with a cavity?

The formula for calculating the electric potential of a spherical conductor with a cavity is V = kQ/r, where V is the electric potential, k is the Coulomb constant, Q is the charge of the conductor, and r is the distance from the center of the conductor.

2. How does the presence of a cavity affect the electric potential of a spherical conductor?

The presence of a cavity in a spherical conductor changes the distribution of charges on the surface of the conductor, resulting in a decrease in the electric potential inside the cavity compared to the potential on the surface of the conductor.

3. What is the significance of the electric potential inside the cavity of a spherical conductor?

The electric potential inside the cavity of a spherical conductor determines the strength and direction of the electric field inside the cavity, which can affect any charged particles or objects placed inside the cavity.

4. How does the size of the cavity affect the electric potential of a spherical conductor?

The size of the cavity has a direct impact on the electric potential of a spherical conductor. As the size of the cavity increases, the electric potential inside the cavity decreases, resulting in a weaker electric field inside the cavity.

5. Can the electric potential inside the cavity of a spherical conductor ever be equal to the potential on the surface of the conductor?

No, the electric potential inside the cavity of a spherical conductor can never be equal to the potential on the surface of the conductor. This is due to the presence of the cavity, which causes a redistribution of charges and a decrease in potential inside the cavity.

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