In a certain region of space, the electric field E is uniform.

[xxaznitex]

Homework Statement

In a certain region of space, the electric field E/vec is uniform.
Why is the charge density in this region zero?
Assume in a region of space where there is no charge, must E/vec be uniform?

Homework Equations

Gauss's Law

The Attempt at a Solution

I don't really know why a uniform electric field makes the charge density zero... The only thing that I know I could do would be to make this "area" so large (to infinity) that the resulting density would be zero. Can anyone explain to me why?

 

[LowlyPion]

If there was a charge would the field be uniform?

 

[xxaznitex]

No because the charge would cause a distortion of the field?

 

[LowlyPion]

That would be my thinking.

What about a region with no charge? Must the field be uniform?

 

[xxaznitex]

Hmm, I would say no, because the charge can be right outside the area with no charge..?

 

[LowlyPion]

Hmm, I would say no, because the charge can be right outside the area with no charge..?

Precisely.