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abhi2005singh
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1. The problem statement
Consider an infinite spherical charge distribution with constant charge density. According to symmetry of the problem, I expect the electric field at any point to be zero. But if you construct a Gaussian sphere and apply Gauss theorem, it will give you some finite field at that point. Is it a paradox or I am missing something here?
[tex]\nabla E=\rho/\epsilon_0[/tex]
Is there any problem in the symmetry argument or an infinite charge distribution is the problem? I don't think that Earnshaw's theorem should be considered here as the charge distribution can be fixed using other forces (theoretically) and the Gauss' law will still hold.
Consider an infinite spherical charge distribution with constant charge density. According to symmetry of the problem, I expect the electric field at any point to be zero. But if you construct a Gaussian sphere and apply Gauss theorem, it will give you some finite field at that point. Is it a paradox or I am missing something here?
Homework Equations
[tex]\nabla E=\rho/\epsilon_0[/tex]
The Attempt at a Solution
Is there any problem in the symmetry argument or an infinite charge distribution is the problem? I don't think that Earnshaw's theorem should be considered here as the charge distribution can be fixed using other forces (theoretically) and the Gauss' law will still hold.
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