Electromagnetics field question

In summary: The charge distribution is then found by relating the field required to the charge on the plate via the permittivity of free space.In summary, the conversation discusses the electric field strengths and surface charge densities of two parallel metal slabs with a distance of l apart and equal surface areas A. The first metal slab has a positive charge Q and the solution provides the electric field strengths for regions 1 to 5 and surface charge densities for surfaces a to d. The charge distribution of a plate can be found by considering the internal field needed to counter the field from the other plate.
  • #1
yusufali
2
0

Homework Statement


28.P50.jpg

The figure shows two very large slabs of metal that are parallel and distance l apart. Each slab has a total surface area (top + bottom) A. The thickness of each slab is so small in comparison to its lateral dimenstions that the surface area around the sides is negligible. Metal 1 has total charge = Q1 = Q. Assume Q is positive. In terms of Q and A, determine

a. The electric field strengths E1 to E5 in regions 1 to 5.
b. The surface charge densities na to nd on the four surfaces a to d.

2. The attempt at a solution

E1 = Q/E0
because the area vector is opposite to the bottom plate
E4 = E2 = 0 (in a conductor, E is 0)
E5 = Q/(2E0)
because the area vector is opposite to the top plate

I do not know how to determine E3, and I have no clue how to do part b
 
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  • #2
The field near a uniformly charged sheet is uniform. It only falls off slightly until distance from the sheet is commensurate with its width. Hence the proximate field is not much affected by how the charge is distributed between the two faces of the plates. Also, the affect of each plate in regions 1 and 5 is little altered by relative proximity. This allows the fields to be written down straight away simply by adding or subtracting the fields from the plates as appropriate.

The charge distribution of a plate can be found by thinking in terms of the internal field that needs to be generated to counter the field from the other plate.
 

1. What is an electromagnetic field?

An electromagnetic field is a type of physical field that is created by the movement of electrically charged particles. It consists of both electric and magnetic components, which are closely related and interact with each other.

2. How is an electromagnetic field created?

An electromagnetic field is created when an electrically charged particle, such as an electron, moves through space. This movement creates a disturbance in the surrounding space, causing electric and magnetic fields to form.

3. What are some everyday examples of electromagnetic fields?

Electromagnetic fields are present in many everyday objects and phenomena, such as cell phones, computers, radios, and light bulbs. They are also present in natural phenomena such as lightning and the Earth's magnetic field.

4. How are electromagnetic fields measured?

Electromagnetic fields can be measured using instruments such as electromagnetic field meters, which detect the strength and direction of the electric and magnetic fields. These measurements are typically given in units of volts per meter (V/m) for electric fields and teslas (T) for magnetic fields.

5. Are electromagnetic fields harmful to humans?

The effects of electromagnetic fields on human health are a topic of ongoing research and debate. While some studies have shown potential health risks from prolonged exposure to certain levels of electromagnetic fields, the overall consensus is that exposure to low levels of electromagnetic fields is not harmful to humans.

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