Permitivity electric field relation

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SUMMARY

The relationship between electric field (E) and permittivity (ε) is defined by the equations D=εE and E=Q/(4πεr^2). E is inversely proportional to permittivity, indicating that in mediums with higher permittivity, the electric field generated by the same configuration of charges will be smaller. However, higher permittivity also allows for greater electric flux due to polarization effects, suggesting a direct proportionality between E and ε. This discussion clarifies the nuanced relationship between electric field strength and permittivity, emphasizing the importance of understanding medium characteristics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric field concepts and equations
  • Familiarity with permittivity and its role in electromagnetism
  • Knowledge of electric flux and charge polarization
  • Basic grasp of mathematical relationships in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of electric polarization and its effects on permittivity
  • Explore the implications of D=εE in different dielectric materials
  • Study the role of electric flux in capacitors and their design
  • Learn about Maxwell's equations and their relation to electric fields and permittivity
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Physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of electromagnetism and the behavior of electric fields in various mediums.

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Hi,

D=εE, and E=Q/(4πεr^2). We may suppose generally that, E is inverse proportional to permittivity. Combining the interpretation to the first equation, E is dependent variable, and D is the independent variable. That is, D is medium dependent. Anyway, E is dependent on the permittivity characteristic of the medium and this relation is inverse. Due to this inverse relation, we would expect that for mediums with higher permittivity, same configuration of charges will have smaller electric field(where D will not change).

However it says, "The larger the tendency for charge distortion (also called electric polarization), the larger the value of the permittivity." in "http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/452314/permittivity" and it says "More electric flux exists in a medium with a high permittivity (per unit charge) because of polarization effects." in "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Permittivity". Due to these explanations, higher permitivity is allowing more electric flux can be generated, which implies stronger electric field. Therefore according to these, E is direct proportional to permittivity.

I am missing a point,probably an easy and a basic one, but i don't know which. So what is the correct explanation?

Thank you.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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I made a mistake in:
"D is medium dependent"
I correct it to:
"D is medium independent"
 

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