Given conductivity, calculate E, D, and P vectors

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the electric field (E), electric displacement field (D), and polarization vector (P) in a gap between parallel copper plates after introducing salt to increase conductivity to σ = 4 S/m. Initially, the electric field is E = -4z V/m in vacuum. When salt is added, the steady-state equilibrium values of E, D, and P must be determined using the relationship D = εE = ε0E + P, where ε is the permittivity of the medium. The solution requires understanding the impact of conductivity on the electric field and the resulting charge distribution on the plates.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and their equations
  • Knowledge of electric displacement field (D) and polarization vector (P)
  • Familiarity with Ohm's Law in the context of electromagnetism
  • Basic concepts of conductivity and its effect on electric fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between electric fields and conductivity in dielectric materials
  • Explore the derivation of D = εE and its implications in different media
  • Investigate the effects of polarization in conductive fluids
  • Learn about the behavior of electric fields in steady-state conditions
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Students and professionals in electrical engineering, physicists, and anyone studying electromagnetism and its applications in conductive materials.

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Homework Statement



The gap between a pair of parallel infinite copper plates extends from z = 0 to z = W > 0 and is originally occupied by vacuum (ε0, μ0). The plates carry equal and oppositely signed surface charge densities and as a consequence we have a constant electric field E = −4ˆz V/m in vacuum in the gap region.

What would be the new equilibrium values of E, D, and P in the gap region if some amount
of salt were dissolved in the fluid in the gap (64ε0) to raise its conductivity to σ = 4 S/m (conductivity of sea water)?

State the values of E, D, and P after a steady-state equilibrium is reached and briey explain your answer.

Homework Equations



9048aa1e501c7b9e6f7f758b10c490f7.png


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9cab6787646062d6e658cd1e83ad468f.png


39adeb66b53fc1be92dda9c01386c3a9.png


DE0*E0+P

P=polarization vector


The Attempt at a Solution



I have the equation J = σE, but I do not know how to relate this to D and P, since I am not given J in the problem

Thanks!
 
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Try to look at this problem qualitatively first. What does Ohm's Law ([itex]\textbf{J}=\sigma\textbf{E}[/itex]) tell you the current will be when the salt is first added? What does that current do to the amount of charge on each plate? What effect does that have on the electric field in the gap?...Can you guess what the electric field will be when equilibrium is reached?
 

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