What Causes Discrepancies in Calculating Induced Charge Ratios?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of induced charge ratios for a point charge (q) located a distance (b) from a grounded conducting sphere with radius (a). The correct ratio of induced charge is given by the formula √(a+b)/√(b-a), while the user consistently arrives at an incorrect formula of √(b² - a² + 2ab)/√(b² - a² - 2ab). Participants emphasize the importance of providing a detailed diagram and the complete working process to facilitate accurate assistance and identify errors in the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics and point charges
  • Familiarity with grounded conducting spheres
  • Knowledge of induced charge concepts
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions and equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the principles of electrostatics related to point charges and conductors
  • Study the method of images in electrostatics for solving charge distribution problems
  • Learn how to derive induced charge ratios using mathematical proofs
  • Practice creating diagrams to visualize electrostatic problems
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying electrostatics, educators teaching these concepts, and anyone involved in solving problems related to induced charge in conductive materials.

Mohammad Allahham
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Dear colleagues
I have this problem which I don't understand from where they got the solution I tried to solve it with slot of methods with the same answer which not the stated answer.
A point charge (q) is located a distance (b) from a grounded conducting sphere with radius (a) show that the ratio between the induced charge of the part in the front of (q) to the rest part is
√(a+b)/√(b-a)
I tried a lot of but each time I got the following answer
√(b2 - a2 +2ab)/√(b2 - a2 - 2ab)
 
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Mohammad Allahham said:
Dear colleagues
I have this problem which I don't understand from where they got the solution I tried to solve it with slot of methods with the same answer which not the stated answer.
A point charge (q) is located a distance (b) from a grounded conducting sphere with radius (a) show that the ratio between the induced charge of the part in the front of (q) to the rest part is
√(a+b)/√(b-a)
I tried a lot of but each time I got the following answer
√(b2 - a2 +2ab)/√(b2 - a2 - 2ab)
Welcome to the PF.

Please show us a diagram of the problem, and show us all of your work that got you to that answer. We can only help you if you show us all of your work.

And in future schoolwork threads that you start, please fill out the Homework Help Template that you are provided when posting. It helps to organize your post, so we don't have to ask so many questions before being able to help. Thank you.

Template said:

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Mohammad Allahham said:
each time I got the following answer
Looks like you are getting the wrong sign on the a2 term, but as noted above, we can't guess how without seeing your working.
Note that your answer makes no sense as b tends to a. You might be able to make that test at various points in your working to see where it goes wrong.

I assume is b the distance from the surface (outside).
 

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