What is the Surface Charge Density for a Spherical Cavity?

In summary, the problem involves a sphere with excess charge and a cavity, and the task is to find the surface charge density on the inside surface. The equation used is the charge divided by the area of the inner sphere. It is also clarified that if the sphere is a good conductor, there will be no charge on the inner surface. The question remains whether the sphere is an insulator or a conductor.
  • #1
Clancy
3
0

Homework Statement



A sphere with excess charge of 1.5 x10 -7 Coulombs, An outer radius of 2.5cm and inner radius of 1.5 cm ( a cavity ). The question is to find the surface charge density on the inside surface.

I'm totally at a loss on this one and couldn't find how to solve it.

Homework Equations



Well surface charge density would be C/area of inner sphere.

The Attempt at a Solution



I couldn't at all figure out how this is done and didnt fiond anythig on it in HRW any help please?
 
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  • #2
If the sphere is made of good conductor, there will be no charge on the inner surface of the sphere.
 
  • #3
Is this an insulating sphere or a conducting sphere?
 

1. What is surface charge density?

Surface charge density, also known as surface electric charge density, is a measure of the amount of electric charge present per unit area on the surface of a material.

2. How is surface charge density calculated?

Surface charge density is calculated by dividing the total charge on a surface by the area of that surface. It is typically measured in units of Coulombs per square meter (C/m²).

3. What factors affect surface charge density?

The two main factors that affect surface charge density are the amount of charge present and the area over which the charge is distributed. Other factors may include the type of material, temperature, and surrounding electric field.

4. How is surface charge density related to electric potential?

Surface charge density is directly related to electric potential. The greater the surface charge density, the larger the electric potential. This relationship is described by the equation: ρ = ε₀ * ∇φ, where ρ is the surface charge density, ε₀ is the electric permittivity of free space, and ∇φ is the electric potential gradient.

5. Why is surface charge density important in electrochemistry?

Surface charge density is important in electrochemistry because it affects the behavior of ions and molecules at the surface of an electrode. It can also impact the kinetics of electrochemical reactions and the overall performance of electrochemical devices.

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