Electricity Formula: Difference between E=σ/2ε0 and E=σ/ε0

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the differences between the electric field formulas E=σ/2ε0 and E=σ/ε0. The formula E=σ/2ε0 applies to thin sheets where electric field lines are distributed equally in both directions, while E=σ/ε0 is used for metal surfaces where all field lines emanate outward from one side. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for correctly applying these formulas in physics problems involving electric fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of electric fields and charge distributions
  • Familiarity with the concepts of ε0 (permittivity of free space) and σ (surface charge density)
  • Knowledge of electrostatics principles
  • Ability to interpret physics equations and their applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric field equations for different charge configurations
  • Learn about the concept of electric field lines and their significance in electrostatics
  • Explore applications of E=σ/ε0 in real-world scenarios involving metal surfaces
  • Investigate the implications of using E=σ/2ε0 in practical physics problems
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Physics students, educators, and professionals in electrical engineering seeking to deepen their understanding of electric fields and their mathematical representations.

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Hi
I want to know what is the diffrences between E=σ/2ε0 & E=σ/ε0
of course I know we use the first for a very huge page but what about the second formula?
I saw in some solving of question when we have 2 pages infront of each others we use both of them...
I want to understand the deep meaning and usage...
pls tell me simply beacuse my profession english is not good!
thank u
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The first formula is used for a thin sheet where the field lines split half in each direction. The second formula is used for the surface of a metal where all the field lines are in one side of the surface (outward), and there is no field in the other side (inward).
 

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