Induced Charge Density on Sheet of Metal

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SUMMARY

The induced charge density on a sheet of metal due to a point charge located a distance 'a' above it is given by the formula (-2aQ)/(4pi(ρ^2+a^2)^(3/2)). This formula applies to an infinite flat sheet of a perfect, grounded conductor. The discussion emphasizes the assumption of integrating from zero to infinity with the variable ρ, which is relevant for calculating the induced charge density accurately. Verification through mathematical integration is suggested to confirm the application of the formula.

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  • Understanding of electrostatics and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with the concept of induced charge density
  • Knowledge of integration techniques in calculus
  • Basic principles of conductors and grounding in physics
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  • Study the derivation of induced charge density formulas in electrostatics
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Homework Statement


A charge is located a distance 'a' above a sheet of metal. The charge density induced on the sheet of metal is (-2aQ)/(4pi(ρ^2+a^2)^(3/2)).

Since there are no dimensions indicated for this plate, would it be plausible to assume that we are integrating from zero to infinity with the variable being ρ?
 
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Depends on what you want to find.
But sure - that formula looks like the one for an infinite flat sheet of perfect, grounded, conductor.
You could verify it by just doing the math.
 

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