Electrostatic Induction: Conductor vs. Dielectric Response Time

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Electrostatic fields induce charges on conductor surfaces more rapidly than dielectrics respond to the same field, with conduction electrons adjusting in femtoseconds. Detecting this difference requires optical experiments rather than electronic means. Cooling a conductor may enhance its reaction speed to electrostatic fields. However, if the field is changing, it is not considered static, and the terminology shifts to 'electric field.' The discussion highlights the nuances in response times between conductors and dielectrics under electrostatic conditions.
Samson4
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Do electrostatic fields induce charges on conductor surfaces faster than dielectrics respond to an identical field?
 
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Conduction electrons adjust in femtoseconds or less; I suspect that dielectrics respond slightly slower.

You cannot detect the difference by electronic means; it would require optical experiments.
 
Thanks Ultrafast. Am I correct in assuming that if a conductor is cooled, it will react faster to electrostatic fields?
 
Samson4 said:
Thanks Ultrafast. Am I correct in assuming that if a conductor is cooled, it will react faster to electrostatic fields?

If a field is changing (which is necessary to reveal any delay), it is no longer 'static'. The term is just 'electric field'.
 
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