Find an electric field around a hollow insulating sphere.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field around a hollow insulating sphere with an inner radius 'a' and outer radius 'b', where the volume charge density is defined as ρ(r) = α/r. The derived formula for the electric field at a distance 'r' from the center of the sphere, where a < r < b, is E = (α/3ε0)(r - (a³/r²)). Participants emphasize the importance of correctly applying Gauss's law and integrating the charge density to arrive at the correct expression for the electric field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Gauss's Law in electrostatics
  • Familiarity with electric field calculations
  • Knowledge of volume charge density concepts
  • Basic integration techniques in calculus
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the application of Gauss's Law for spherical symmetry
  • Practice integrating charge density functions in electrostatics
  • Explore the implications of varying charge densities on electric fields
  • Study the behavior of electric fields in different geometrical configurations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics, particularly those focusing on electric fields generated by charged spherical objects.

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Homework Statement


An insulating hollow sphere has inner radius a and outer radius b. Within the insulating material the volume charge density is given by ρ(r)=\alpha/r,where \alpha is a positive constant. What is the magnitude of the electric field at a distance r from the center of the shell, where a<r<b?
Express your answer in terms of the variables α, a, r, and electric constant ϵ0.


Homework Equations



E*4\pir^2 = Q * volume

The Attempt at a Solution



Substituting and integrating with the above formula, I came out with (α/3\epsilon0)(r-((a^3)/(r^2)). I cannot tell if the error is with my math, or with the formula I began this process with.
 
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Hello sport, and welcome to PF.
Apparently you conclude that your answer is in error. How do you know ?
You show your answer, but I can't reconstruct what you do to get there...
Please post some intermediary steps...
 

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