What is the Electric Flux through a Small Disk near a Point Charge?

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In summary, the problem involves a small disc with radius R placed a distance z from a point charge -q, with the disc's surface normal pointing along the z-axis. The task is to derive an expression for the electric flux ΦE through the disc, assuming that R ≪ z. The hint suggests considering the correct approximation to simplify the problem. One possible approach is to think about the area of the disc compared to an entire sphere with radius z centered on the charge.
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ferret123
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Homework Statement


A small disc or radius R with surface normal
ˆ
k is placed a distance z from a point charge −q,( k hat pointing along the z-axis which goes through the charge and the center of the disk.)

Assuming that R ≪ z, derive an expression for the electric flux ΦE passing through
the disc.

Hint: Think of the correct approximation to make before starting the question.

Homework Equations



ΦE= q/ε

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm struggling to think of the approximation to simplify this problem. I can only think that with z much greater than R the disk would be a point charge but that wouldn't help at all. Any help to get started on the problem would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
Think about the area of the disc, and how that compares with an entire sphere radius z centred on the charge.
 

1. What is flux through a distant disk?

Flux through a distant disk refers to the amount of energy or radiation passing through a disk-like structure located at a significant distance from the observer.

2. How is flux through a distant disk measured?

Flux through a distant disk is typically measured using various telescopes and instruments that can detect and quantify different types of radiation, such as visible light, radio waves, X-rays, and gamma rays.

3. What factors affect the flux through a distant disk?

The flux through a distant disk can be affected by several factors, including the size and distance of the disk, the intensity and type of radiation being emitted, and any intervening material that may absorb or scatter the radiation.

4. What can we learn from studying the flux through a distant disk?

Studying the flux through a distant disk can provide valuable information about the properties and behavior of the source of radiation, as well as the surrounding environment. This can help scientists better understand the physical processes and structures involved.

5. How does the flux through a distant disk relate to other astronomical phenomena?

The flux through a distant disk is closely related to other astronomical phenomena, such as accretion disks around black holes, the formation and evolution of galaxies, and the emission of radiation from stars and other celestial objects. Understanding the flux through a distant disk can help us better understand these phenomena and their impact on the universe.

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