Solving Gauss's Law Problem: Determine Electric Field on/in Sphere

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around applying Gauss's law to determine the electric field associated with a metallic sphere that has been charged. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the application of the law and the distinction between charge distribution inside and on the surface of the sphere.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of Gauss's law and question how to differentiate between the charge inside the sphere and the charge on its surface. There is also a focus on understanding the charge distribution in a conductor under electrostatic equilibrium.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the behavior of charge in conductors, particularly under electrostatic conditions. However, there remains uncertainty about the application of these principles to the specific problem at hand.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of electrostatic equilibrium and the behavior of electric fields within conductors, which may influence their understanding of the problem. The original poster's inquiry suggests a need for clarification on these foundational concepts.

samblue
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Homework Statement



Ok so I', having some problems with Gauss's law. I know what it is, but I still can't get the answers right.

A metallic sphere of diameter 2*10-2m has been given a charge of 2 nC. State Gauss's law. Use this to determine the electrical field at the surface of the sphere. What is the electrical field inside the field?


Homework Equations



integral (E.dA)=Qenclosed/permitivity of free space


The Attempt at a Solution



the fist part is the equation written below.

However I am not sure about the next part. How do I distinguish between the charge inside the spehere and the charge on the surface?

Thanks
 
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Assuming electrostatic equilibrium, what's the charge inside a conductor?
 
Doc Al said:
Assuming electrostatic equilibrium, what's the charge inside a conductor?


Not really sure. Is it zero? Becasue all of the charge passes through it?
 
samblue said:
Not really sure. Is it zero? Becasue all of the charge passes through it?
Key fact (where electrostatic equilibrium holds): The electric field is zero everwhere inside a conductor. All the (net) charge on a conductor lies on its surface.
 
thanks
 

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