Question About Continuity of an E field of a sphere

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric potential for a uniformly charged sphere with density ρ0 and radius R, specifically addressing the behavior of the electric field inside (rR) the sphere. The conclusion is that there is no discontinuity in the electric field at the surface of the sphere, as evidenced by the equality of the electric field values just inside and outside the surface (E_in| r=R = E_out| r=R), indicating a surface charge density of zero. This aligns with the principles of electrostatics for uniformly charged spheres.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics principles
  • Familiarity with electric potential and electric field concepts
  • Knowledge of Gauss's Law
  • Basic calculus for evaluating electric fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Gauss's Law and its applications in electrostatics
  • Learn about electric field continuity and discontinuity in charged objects
  • Explore the concept of surface charge density in electrostatics
  • Review the mathematical derivation of electric potential for spherical charge distributions
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, as well as educators and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of electric fields and potentials in charged spheres.

xxbigelxx
Messages
82
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Please calculate the potential for a sphere that is uniformly charged with density ρ0 and also has a radius of R.
a. r<R
b. r>R
c. Is there a discontinuity of Electric Field at the surface? Explain your reasoning.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I have attached my work for the first two parts, which I am pretty sure is correct. However, I need help with the last part. I want to say that it is continuous, because of the nature of uniformly charged spheres. However I don't know if this is right, or how to really explain it. This is due tomorrow, so any help (especially if it's quick) would be GREATLY appreciated. Thank you.

http://i53.tinypic.com/xpszo7.jpg
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Ok great. Thanks.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 37 ·
2
Replies
37
Views
13K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 49 ·
2
Replies
49
Views
7K