Simple Van de Graaff Generator Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the behavior of an uncharged hollow conducting sphere when brought near a charged Van de Graaff Generator. The charge distribution on the sphere results in negative charges accumulating near the generator and positive charges on the opposite side. According to Gauss's Law, the net electric flux through the sphere is zero due to the total charge being zero. The electric field inside the sphere is also zero, confirming its function as a Faraday's Cage, where induced charges negate the external field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with Gauss's Law
  • Knowledge of Faraday's Cage principles
  • Basic concepts of electric fields and potentials
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of electrostatics in detail
  • Learn about Gauss's Law applications in various scenarios
  • Explore the design and function of Faraday's Cages
  • Investigate the behavior of electric fields in conductive materials
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Students and educators in physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding electrostatic principles and their applications in real-world scenarios.

Cantor
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My area of concern is C) and if I am correct in assuming it is like Faradays cage, but I am new to all this so I also put down A and B also.

If you charge up a Van de Graaff Generator and then bring an identical but uncharged hollow conducting sphere near it, without letting the two spheres touch.

A) What is the distribution of charges on the second sphere? My Answer: Negative charge near the generator and + on the other side of sphere.

B) What is the net flux through the second sphere? Answer: Because total q =0 Using Gauss's Law the net flux is zero.

C) What is the electric field inside the second sphere? Answer: E=0, the sphere would act like a Faraday's Cage and the field of induced charges combine with the uniform field to make E=0 inside.
 
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Cantor said:
My area of concern is C) and if I am correct in assuming it is like Faradays cage, but I am new to all this so I also put down A and B also.

If you charge up a Van de Graaff Generator and then bring an identical but uncharged hollow conducting sphere near it, without letting the two spheres touch.

A) What is the distribution of charges on the second sphere? My Answer: Negative charge near the generator and + on the other side of sphere.

B) What is the net flux through the second sphere? Answer: Because total q =0 Using Gauss's Law the net flux is zero.

C) What is the electric field inside the second sphere? Answer: E=0, the sphere would act like a Faraday's Cage and the field of induced charges combine with the uniform field to make E=0 inside.
That looks good to me.
 

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