Insulating Cylindrical Shell, Potential at edge

In summary, we have a long cylindrical insulating shell with an inner radius of 1.37 m and an outer radius of 1.60 m. The shell has a constant charge density of 2.70 10−9 C/m3. The electric field at a distance of 1.81 m from the axis is 5.76×101 N/C, and at a distance of 1.52 m, it is 4.35×101 N/C. If the potential at the axis is taken to be zero, the electric potential at the outer radius of the shell can be found by integrating the equation ∫ Q*(R^2 - r^2) / 2r *ε0 from the
  • #1
wohzah
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Homework Statement



A long cylindrical insulating shell has an inner radius of a = 1.37 m and an outer radius of b = 1.60 m. The shell has a constant charge density of 2.70 10−9 C/m3. The picture shows an end-on cross-section of the cylindrical shell.

What is the magnitude of the electric field at a distance of r= 1.81 m from the axis?
5.76×101 N/C


What is the magnitude of the electric field at a distance of r= 1.52 m from the axis?
4.35×101 N/C

If we take the potential at the axis to be zero, what is the electric potential at the outer radius of the shell?


Homework Equations


V=kdq/r

Va - Vb=∫E.da


The Attempt at a Solution


∫ Q*(R^2 - r^2) / 2r *ε0 from the inner radius to the outer radius, my assumption was that since V equals the summation of electric field over the area enclosed, and that since potential was zero at the center, the potential would be equal to the difference in potential due to the electric field. Any insight or help is appreciated.

 
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  • #2
hey for those interested I actually sorted myself out on this one, the final equation i used was the integral of rho(r^2 -a^2)*dr / 2 *r* e0 [a,R]. Where rho is the charge density, a is the interior radius, r is a variable, dr is the differential radius element, and e0 is epsilon naught, 8.854e-12.
 

1. What is an insulating cylindrical shell?

An insulating cylindrical shell is a hollow, cylindrical structure made of a material that does not conduct electricity. It is used to enclose and protect other objects or systems from electrical currents.

2. How does an insulating cylindrical shell work?

An insulating cylindrical shell works by creating a barrier between the object inside and any external electrical currents. This barrier prevents the flow of electricity and protects the object from damage.

3. What is the potential at the edge of an insulating cylindrical shell?

The potential at the edge of an insulating cylindrical shell is the voltage or electric potential difference between the inside and outside of the shell. It is typically measured in volts (V) and can be calculated using the electric field and distance from the edge of the shell.

4. Why is it important to consider the potential at the edge of an insulating cylindrical shell?

It is important to consider the potential at the edge of an insulating cylindrical shell because it can affect the behavior and performance of the object inside. If the potential is too high, it can cause damage to the object or interfere with its functioning.

5. How can the potential at the edge of an insulating cylindrical shell be controlled?

The potential at the edge of an insulating cylindrical shell can be controlled by adjusting the distance between the shell and the object inside, as well as the thickness and material of the shell. Additionally, grounding the shell can also help to control the potential at the edge.

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