Point Charge and Charged Sphere

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a point charge located at the center of a thick conducting shell with a net charge. The relevant equations for electric field and force are mentioned, but the approach to solving the problem is uncertain. The use of Gauß' law is suggested as a potential solution method.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


A point charge q1 = -6.1 μC is located at the center of a thick conducting shell of inner radius a = 2.8 cm and outer radius b = 4.8 cm, The conducting shell has a net charge of q2 = 2.6 μC.

Homework Equations


E = (kQ)/r2
F = (kq1q2)/r2

The Attempt at a Solution


I honestly do not know how to approach this problem mostly because I've been dealing with point charges. I'm not sure how to find the field of a charged sphere. I'm sure once I get this part down, the rest will follow. Thanks to any and all that can help, I really appreciate it; This is probably the most difficult time I've had with physics (to date).
 
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  • #2
What is the question?

Do you know Gauß' law?
 

1. What is a point charge?

A point charge is a hypothetical concept in physics, which represents a single charge that is concentrated at a specific point in space. It is usually used to simplify calculations and models of electrical systems.

2. How is the electric field of a point charge calculated?

The electric field of a point charge is calculated by dividing the magnitude of the charge by the square of the distance between the charge and the point where the field is being measured. The direction of the field is always away from a positive charge and towards a negative charge.

3. What is the difference between a point charge and a charged sphere?

A point charge is a single charge concentrated at a point, while a charged sphere is a three-dimensional object with a non-uniform distribution of charge. The electric field of a point charge is determined by its distance from the charge, while the electric field of a charged sphere is determined by its size, shape, and distribution of charge.

4. How does the electric field inside and outside a charged sphere differ?

Inside a charged sphere, the electric field is zero because the electric forces from the charges within the sphere cancel each other out. Outside the sphere, the electric field is similar to that of a point charge, with the field strength decreasing as the distance from the sphere increases.

5. Can the electric field of a charged sphere be affected by the material it is made of?

Yes, the electric field of a charged sphere can be affected by the material it is made of. The dielectric constant of the material, which measures its ability to store charge, can impact the electric field strength and distribution within the sphere.

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