How Is Surface Charge Density Calculated from Electric Field Magnitude?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating surface charge density from the electric field magnitude associated with a uniformly charged plane. The problem is situated within the context of electrostatics and involves concepts from Gauss's Law.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Gauss's Law to relate electric field and surface charge density. Questions arise regarding the definition and value of the permittivity of free space, as well as the perceived difficulty of the problem.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided relevant information regarding the relationship between electric field and charge density, while others seek clarification on constants involved in the calculations. The discussion is ongoing with multiple aspects being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the definitions and constants relevant to the problem, including the permittivity of free space, which is essential for the calculations. There is an indication that the problem may be perceived as straightforward for those familiar with the underlying principles.

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Homework Statement


A large plane having uniform charge density has an electric field just outside the plane that points directly toward the plane with magnitude 1.50×10^4 N/C .

What is the surface charge density?
Express your answer with the appropriate unit

Homework Equations



I am not sure how to start this, the relevant equations would probably be enough to get me through this questions.

The Attempt at a Solution


 
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Right. By Gauss Law electric field of an infinitely large plane non-conducting sheet is σ/2ε where σ is charge density and ε is permittivity of free space.
 
thanks for that, what is the permittivity of free space? also is this meant to be an easy question?
 
Permittivity constant accounts the dielectric properties of the medium and for air(or vacuum) it is 8.854×10−12 Fm-1.
Remember the constant in the Coulomb's Law? It is actually 1/4πε .
As for the question itself if you are familiar with Gauss law it shouldn't be difficult and the result is used as a standard formula in many texts.
 

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