Сurrent through spherical capacitor

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SUMMARY

The conductivity of the insulator in a spherical capacitor filled with a weakly conductive dielectric is determined using the formula Λ = (4πλ/ε) (R1R2/(R1-R2)). The discussion highlights the derivation of this formula through the application of divergence laws and Ohm's law. The key distinction made is between "specific dielectric conductivity" and "specific conductivity," emphasizing that the dielectric permittivity ε is a crucial factor in the calculation. The final answer aligns with the established formula found in academic resources.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical coordinates in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with Ohm's law and its application in dielectric materials
  • Knowledge of divergence and electric field concepts
  • Basic principles of capacitors and dielectric materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of electric field equations in spherical coordinates
  • Research the relationship between specific conductivity and dielectric permittivity
  • Explore advanced topics in dielectric materials and their applications in capacitors
  • Learn about the implications of weakly conductive dielectrics in electrical engineering
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Students in electrical engineering, physicists studying electromagnetism, and professionals working with capacitors and dielectric materials will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


Determine the conductivity of the insulator in a spherical
capacitor filled with weakly conductive dielectric. Specific conductivity of the dielectric is λ, the dielectric permittivity ε.

Ansver in book is ##\Lambda = \frac{4\pi\lambda}{\epsilon} \frac{R_1R_2}{R_1-R_2}##

The Attempt at a Solution


My solution is to use following law's

##div \vec j = 0 ## (1)but

##\vec j = \lambda \vec E##(2)

then

##div \vec j = \lambda div \vec E =0## (3)

in spherical coordinates ##div \vec E =0## leads to
##Er^2 = const##

then current ##I=j4\pi r^2 = 4\pi \lambda \frac{const}{r^2} r^2 = 4\pi \lambda \cdot const##.
Now find the voltage:
##V = \int\limits_{R_1}^{R_2} E dr = \int\limits_{R_1}^{R_2} \frac{const}{r^2} dr = const \left(\frac{1}{R_1} - \frac{1}{R_2}\right)##

Then, from the Ohm's law
##\Lambda = \frac{I}{V} =4\pi\lambda \frac{R_1R_2}{R_1-R_2}##

My answer is differ from book, where have I missed ##\frac{1}{\epsilon}##?
 
Last edited:
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Apparently "specific dielectric conductivity" (never heard of that concept) differs from the specific conductivity by this factor of ε.
 
mfb said:
Apparently "specific dielectric conductivity" (never heard of that concept) differs from the specific conductivity by this factor of ε.
It must be "specific conductivity of the dielectric".
 

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