Potential Due to a Charged non conducting sphere

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the electric potential inside a charged non-conducting sphere using the provided formulas for electric field and potential. Participants clarify that the electric field inside a non-conducting sphere is not zero, unlike in a conducting sphere. The correct approach involves integrating the electric field from infinity to the desired point inside the sphere, requiring a two-step calculation. Acknowledgment is given to the importance of small hints in problem-solving. The problem was ultimately resolved through collaborative discussion and clarification of the integration process.
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Homework Statement



<br /> \bold{V}\ =\ \frac{Q\,(3R^2\ -\ r^2)}{4\,\pi\,\varepsilon_0 \ \ {2R^3}}<br />

Potential inside the sphere.

Homework Equations



Electric field inside the sphere (non conducting):


<br /> \bold{E}\ =\ \frac{Q.r}{4\,\pi\,\varepsilon_0\,R^3}<br />

and

<br /> \bold{V}\ = \int E.dr

In one dimension.

The Attempt at a Solution



Even when we use both the formula's I've given we don't get the one given in the book. Does anybody here have some suggestion to find, how they have derived it.
 
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How have you used the formulae you are given? What have you tried to do?

Note that to calculate the potential you must integrate from infinity up to the point that you're concerned about - in this case the formula for the electric field changes between infinity and your point.
 
What do you know about the electric field inside a charged sphere?

Electric field is zero inside charged conducting sphere but not in the case of non conducting sphere.
 
Yes, sorry, I misread your post - I've edited it now.
 
How have you used the formulae you are given? What have you tried to do?

Note that to calculate the potential you must integrate from infinity up to the point that you're concerned about - in this case the formula for the electric field changes between infinity and your point.

Thanks, It is solved now. Actually we have to calculate it in two steps. work required to bring unit positive charge from infinity to the surface and then from surface to some point inside the sphere.

BTW, thanks once again gadje. Sometime a very small hint can trigger our mind.
 
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