How Does Shell Theorem Apply to Asymmetrical and Perforated Shells?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the Shell Theorem to asymmetrical and perforated shells, including hemispherical shells and shells with irregular cross-sections. Participants explore the implications of the theorem in these contexts, questioning its validity and the nature of forces involved.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that the net force on a point mass at the center of a spherical shell is zero, but questions the force between the shell and the point mass due to the distance being zero, suggesting an infinite force.
  • Another participant challenges this view, stating that the mass of the shell cannot be treated as concentrated at its center when determining the force it exerts on a mass within the shell, arguing that the distinction made between force "on" and "between" is not valid in this context.
  • Several participants inquire about the applicability of the Shell Theorem to non-standard geometries, such as hemispherical shells and shells with irregular holes, indicating uncertainty about its generalizability.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the interpretation of forces within the shell and the applicability of the Shell Theorem to various shell geometries. No consensus is reached on these points.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in understanding the forces involved and the assumptions made about the mass distribution in shells of different shapes. The discussion remains open-ended regarding the implications of these factors.

zarmewa
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INSIDE SHELL

Not sure if it is done erroneously or blatantly but there is a mammoth difference between

“Force ON the particle” and “Force BETWEEN the particles”

Therefore just suffice it to say that the net force ON the point mass at exact center of the spherical shell is zero but the force BETWEEN shell and point mass is F=GMm/r^2=infinity, because the on center distance of the shell and the point mass coincides id est r = zero

Similarly, would the praxis be amenable to hemispherical shell or quasi cross-section, disorderly holes in the spherical shell and asymmetrical shell?
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zarmewa said:
Therefore just suffice it to say that the net force ON the point mass at exact center of the spherical shell is zero but the force BETWEEN shell and point mass is F=GMm/r^2=infinity, because the on center distance of the shell and the point mass coincides id est r = zero
Nope. You cannot treat the mass of the shell as if concentrated at its center when trying to find the force it exerts on a mass within the shell. (And your distinction between force "on" and force "between" doesn't make sense when talking about a point mass within the shell.)
 


Is shell theorem applicable to hemispherical shell or quasi cross-section, disorderly holes in the spherical shell and asymmetrical shell?
 


zarmewa said:
Is shell theorem applicable to hemispherical shell or quasi cross-section, disorderly holes in the spherical shell and asymmetrical shell?
No..
 

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