Proof that the E field inside a cylindrical resistor is constant

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the proof that the electric field (E field) inside a cylindrical resistor remains constant due to the nonconductive nature of the surrounding medium. It is established that because the surrounding medium has negligible conductivity, the charge flow at the surface does not have a component along the normal, leading to the conclusion that the E field along the normal must also be zero. The confusion arises from the assumption that a non-zero E field could exist without causing charge flow, which contradicts the principles of electrostatics.

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  • Understanding of electrostatics principles
  • Familiarity with electric field concepts
  • Knowledge of cylindrical resistor behavior
  • Basic understanding of conductivity and its effects on electric fields
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  • Study the relationship between electric fields and charge flow in nonconductive materials
  • Research the properties of cylindrical resistors in electrostatics
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of electric fields in different media
  • Examine case studies involving electric fields in various conductivity scenarios
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Fibo112
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I am reading a proof for this statement and I don't understand one of the steps. It is stated that since the surrounding medium is nonconductive the flow of charge at the surface has no component along the normal of the surface. From this the conclusion is drawn that the E field along the normal must be zero too.

This I don't understand. Since the conductivity of the surrounding medium is assumed to approach zero couldn't the E field be nonzero without causing charge to flow?
 
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if you could post a link or a citation so we know exactly what you're reading, you may get better answers.
 
Nugatory said:
if you could post a link or a citation so we know exactly what you're reading, you may get better answers.
 

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