How Does Gauss' Law Apply to an Infinite Charged Wall?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on applying Gauss' Law to determine the electric field (Ey) generated by an infinite charged wall with a uniform charge density of ρv = 3 C/m3. The participants conclude that the electric field inside the wall is zero at the center (y = 0) and increases outward, while outside the wall, the electric field is constant and equal to E = 2ρv/ε0. The discussion emphasizes the importance of symmetry in determining the direction of the electric field and the necessity of correctly setting up the Gaussian surface for calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Gauss' Law and its mathematical formulation
  • Familiarity with electric fields and charge density concepts
  • Knowledge of symmetry in electrostatics
  • Basic calculus for evaluating integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric fields using Gauss' Law for different charge distributions
  • Learn about the concept of electric flux and its calculation through surfaces
  • Explore the implications of symmetry in electrostatics and its effects on electric fields
  • Investigate the behavior of electric fields in various geometries, such as infinite planes and spherical shells
USEFUL FOR

Students of electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone seeking to understand the application of Gauss' Law in electrostatics, particularly in relation to infinite charge distributions.

  • #31
TSny said:
Yes. Note that the D here corresponds to the field at an arbitrary point where y is greater than 2. Putting it together, what do you find for D (or E) at an arbitrary point outside the wall?
SO we have

E = 2 ρv / ε0

If this is correct then it implies that distance does not matter once outside of the wall. Is this right
 
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  • #32
Yes, that is right. The only thing left is to think about what happens when you go to points with negative values of y. In particular, will Ey be positive or negative?
 
  • #33
TSny said:
Yes, that is right. The only thing left is to think about what happens when you go to points with negative values of y. In particular, will Ey be positive or negative?
It should be the same magnitude as +y but opposite direction I think
 
  • #34
Yes. That means Ey is negative for negative y.
 
  • #35
TSny said:
Yes. That means Ey is negative for negative y.
I can tell that this tried your patience. I want you to know that I am so grateful that you stuck it out with me. I am even more grateful that you did not jst give me the answer. Thank you so much
 
  • #36
Good work.
 

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