Calculating the Increase in Energy for a Capacitor with Concentric Spheres

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a capacitor with two concentric spheres, where the outer sphere can be removed without disturbing the charges on either. The problem asks to find the increase in energy when the two spheres are separated by a large distance, and where this extra energy comes from. The solution involves calculating the capacity of an isolated sphere and using a formula for electrostatic energy.
  • #1
renegade05
52
0

Homework Statement


A capacitor consisting of two concentric spheres is arranged so that
the outer sphere can be separated and removed without disturbing the
charges on either. The radius of the inner sphere is a and that of the outer
sphere is b, and the charges are Q and -Q, respectively

a) If the outer sphere is removed and restored to its original form, find the
increase in energy when the two spheres are separated by a large distance.

b) Where does this extra energy come from?

Homework Equations



no idea

The Attempt at a Solution


no idea

The professor is teaching at a way higher level than necessary and I have no clue on what to do. Do I use gauss' law? maybe? I have no idea. please help
 
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  • #2
How do you normally work out the energy stored in a configuration of charges?
You should have some notes on this.
 
  • #3
@renegade05, think of difference of electrostatic energies between two cases. Capacity of spherical capacitor is:
phpYQUYwR.png

Capacity of isolated sphere is?
And formula for electrostatic energy you will use is?
 
Last edited:

1. What is an electrodynamics capacitor?

An electrodynamics capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy by using two or more conductors separated by an insulating material, also known as a dielectric. When a voltage is applied, an electric field is created between the conductors, storing energy in the capacitor.

2. How does an electrodynamics capacitor differ from other types of capacitors?

Unlike traditional capacitors, electrodynamics capacitors utilize the principles of electrodynamics to store energy. This means that the energy is stored in the electric field between the conductors, rather than on the surface of the conductors. This allows for higher energy storage capacity and faster charging and discharging times.

3. What are the applications of electrodynamics capacitors?

Electrodynamics capacitors have a wide range of applications, including energy storage in electronic devices, power factor correction in electrical systems, and energy storage in renewable energy systems. They are also used in high-voltage applications such as particle accelerators and pulsed power systems.

4. How do electrodynamics capacitors store energy?

Electrodynamics capacitors store energy by creating an electric field between the conductors. The amount of energy stored is directly proportional to the voltage applied and the capacitance of the capacitor. This energy can be released when needed, allowing for efficient energy storage and transfer.

5. What are some advantages of electrodynamics capacitors?

There are several advantages of electrodynamics capacitors, including high energy storage capacity, fast charging and discharging times, and low self-discharge rates. They also have a longer lifespan compared to traditional capacitors and can withstand high voltages and temperatures. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly as they do not contain toxic materials.

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