Spherically Symmetric charge distribution

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the conditions under which the total charge Q of a spherically symmetric charge distribution remains finite. The charge density is defined as ρ(r) = ρ0(r/r0)^(-n) for r > r0 and ρ(r) = ρ0 for r ≤ r0. The key point is that the total charge for r > r0 is finite if the integral ∫1/r^(n-2) dr converges. This integral converges for n > 3, indicating that the total charge is finite only for these values of n. Understanding these conditions is crucial for solving the electromagnetism problem effectively.
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I am currently doing a past paper question for my electromagnetism exam and I can't seem to figure out this problem, it is probably quite simple but I can't see a solution

Homework Statement



Consider a spherically symmetric charge distribution:

ρ(r) = ρ0(r/r0)-n for r>r0

ρ(r) = ρ0 for r≤r0

where ρ0, r0 and n are constants and r = |r|

i) For which values of n is the total charge Q finite? compute the total charge for these values

Homework Equations



As above in the question

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea how to start
 
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The total charge is finite if the charge for r>r0 is finite.

That charge is given by Q(r>r0) = ∫ρ(r) dV = 4π∫ρ(r)r2 dr = 4πρ0r0n∫r2/rn dr

Now you need to know for which values of n does the integral ∫1/rn-2 dr converges. (The integral being taken from r0 to infinity, obviously).
 
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