Formula for electric field for capacitor and cylinder

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of electric field formulas for a parallel plate capacitor and a cylindrical capacitor. The formula for the parallel plate capacitor is given as E = k(2πq/A), while for the cylinder, it is E = k(q/(2Lr)). These formulas are derived from the electric displacement field, D, which is defined as the surface charge density (charge per unit area). Specifically, D is expressed as D = q/A for the parallel plate and D = q/(2πrL) for the cylindrical capacitor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and capacitors
  • Familiarity with the concept of electric displacement field (D)
  • Knowledge of surface charge density
  • Basic calculus for derivation of formulas
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric displacement field equations
  • Learn about Gauss's Law and its application to capacitors
  • Explore the concept of surface charge density in different geometries
  • Investigate the impact of dielectric materials on electric fields in capacitors
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, electrical engineering students, and educators looking to deepen their understanding of electric fields and capacitor behavior.

derek181
Messages
57
Reaction score
2
My prof gave two formulas without much explanation as to where he got them from. For a parallel plate capacitor he gave it as E=k2∏q/A and for a cylinder he gave E=kq2/Lr where L is the length of the cylinder and r is the radius and A is the area. Can someone please explain how he derived these.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
hi derek181! :smile:

he gets it from the electric displacement field, D, which is always equal to the surface charge density, ie charge/area …

D = q/A or D = q/2πrL :wink:


(and see here)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
481
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K