Electric field conductor problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion addresses two problems related to electric fields and conductors. For the first problem, the correct formula for the energy stored in an isolated spherical conductor is clarified as Q²/(4πε₀r), leading to the conclusion that the energy expression should be V²/(4πε₀r). In the second problem, the ratio of surface charge densities on two spheres is determined to be b/a, with the surface areas of the spheres being a² and b². The explanation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the isolation of the conductor in the first problem. Overall, the thread focuses on resolving misunderstandings about formulas related to electric fields and conductors.
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I'm revising for my exam and got stuck in the following questions. Please help.

1) An isolated spherical conductor of radius r is charged to a potential V. The total electrical energy stored is _______.
This is an MC question and the answer is V2(2*pi*εo*r)
I only know energy stored = Qq/(4*pi*εo*r) and V=Q/(4*pi*εo*r)

2)A positively-charged metal sphere A of radius a is joined by a conducting wire to an uncharged metal sphere B of radius b placed far away from the first sphere. THe ratio of the surface charged density on sphere A to that on sphere B is ______.
The answer is b/a.

Well, I know surface area of A :surface area of B = a^2:b^2. How can I get the answer b/a ?

Thanks in advance.
 
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In the first problem you have an incorrect formula: this is an "isolated" conductor so you do NOT have two charges, q and Q.
Since you have only one charge, Q, you need to use
energy stored = Q2/(4*pi*epsilon*r).

You also know V=Q/(4*pi*epsilon*r) so Q= V/(4*pi*epsilon*r) and Q2= V2/(4*pi*epsilon*r)2. Substitute that into the first equation and then simplify.
 
That means the answer isn't V^2(2*pi*eplison*r) but V^2(4*pi*eplison*r). I'm pretty sure I was given a wrong answer.
Thanks.
 
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