How to proof that the electric fielf inside a conducting shell is zero

Thread starter spectrum123
Start date Jul 4, 2012
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Conducting Electric Proof Shell Zero

In summary, to prove that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero, we can use Gauss's Law. A Faraday cage can also be used to demonstrate this, as it blocks external electric fields from entering the interior. However, the electric field inside a conducting shell is not always zero, as it can have a non-zero field if there is a net charge on the shell. The distribution of charge on the shell also affects the electric field, with an evenly distributed charge resulting in a zero field. A mathematical proof using Gauss's Law can also show that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero.

Jul 4, 2012

spectrum123

how to proof that the electric fielf inside a conducting shell is zero ?
i don't want to solve it using gauss law and not through practically taking example but i wanted to solve it through vector by finding the resultant zero at any point? please explain?

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Jul 4, 2012

amiras

Its very likely to be analogous to Newtons Shell theorem http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shell_theorem

1. How can we prove that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero?

To prove that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero, we can use Gauss's Law. This law states that the electric flux through a closed surface is equal to the charge enclosed by that surface divided by the permittivity of free space. Since a conducting shell has no net charge, the electric flux through the surface of the shell must be zero, which means that the electric field inside the shell is also zero.

2. Can we use a Faraday cage to demonstrate that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero?

Yes, we can use a Faraday cage to demonstrate that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero. A Faraday cage is a conductive enclosure that blocks external electric fields from entering the interior. If the electric field inside the cage is zero, it means that the conducting shell is also blocking any external electric fields, thus proving that the electric field inside the shell is zero.

3. Is the electric field inside a conducting shell always zero?

No, the electric field inside a conducting shell is not always zero. If the conducting shell has a net charge, then there will be an electric field inside the shell. However, in most cases, conducting shells are neutral or have a very small net charge, which results in a negligible electric field inside the shell.

4. How does the distribution of charge on a conducting shell affect the electric field inside?

The distribution of charge on a conducting shell has a direct impact on the electric field inside. If the charge is evenly distributed on the surface of the shell, the electric field inside will be zero. However, if the charge is concentrated in certain areas, there may be a non-zero electric field inside the shell in those regions.

5. Can we use a mathematical proof to show that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero?

Yes, we can use a mathematical proof to show that the electric field inside a conducting shell is zero. By applying Gauss's Law and using the fact that the electric flux through the surface of a conducting shell is zero, we can mathematically prove that the electric field inside the shell is also zero.