Spherical conductor with point charge not in center

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the distribution of charges in a spherical conductor with a point charge located off-center within its cavity. Participants are exploring the implications of this setup on electric fields and charge distribution.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express differing opinions on the correct answer regarding charge distribution, with some questioning the validity of their tutor's guidance. There are inquiries about the nature of conductors and the behavior of electric fields in relation to Gauss' law.

Discussion Status

The conversation reflects a lack of consensus on the correct interpretation of the problem, with participants actively questioning assumptions and seeking clarification on the concepts involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the definition of a conductor and its implications for charge distribution.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and principles of electrostatics, particularly in relation to conductors and electric fields. There is a noted tension between personal interpretations and the guidance provided by the tutor.

Nosegum
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


How do the charges distribute when I have a spherical conductor centered cavity with a point charge not in center inside the cavity?

See image:
36788.jpg


Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


I would guess solution 1, but my tutor says it's 4, and I just can't believe him. Should I?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Question: what is a conductor?

(that may help you)
 
It does not help me. I have been studying this a lot and have kind of made up my mind on 1. I guess my real problem is that I'm wondering about if my tutor should be teaching physics...

Anyway, how would the electric field be between the charge and the conductor? My tutor says zero, but that does not obey Gauss' law, so I don't believe that either.
 
The question is not what the electric field is between the charge and the conductor. You are asked how the charge is distributed in the conductor. If you read the definition of conductor, you'll see why 4. is the right answer (think about equipotential surface).
 
I'd have answered 1 too. Certainly not 4.
I wonder what the experienced guys think.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
23
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K