The potential at the center of the sphere

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric potential at the center of a charged, solid copper sphere, given the electric field at its surface. The problem is situated within the context of electrostatics and the properties of conductors.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between electric field and potential, questioning how to determine the necessary variables for calculation. Some suggest considering the electric field inside the conductor and the implications of the conductor's properties on potential.

Discussion Status

There are multiple lines of reasoning being explored, including the application of relevant equations and theorems related to conductors. Participants are engaging with the concepts of electric field and potential, with some guidance provided on the uniform distribution of charge on the surface of the sphere.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating assumptions about the behavior of electric fields within conductors and the implications for potential, while also acknowledging the need for specific values to proceed with calculations.

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Homework Statement




the electric field at the surface of a charged, solid, copper sphere with radius 0.160m is 3600N/C , directed toward the center of the sphere.
what is the potential at the center of the sphere, if we take the potential to be zero infinitely far from the sphere?
answer in V
thanks



. The attempt at a solution
v=u/q
how to find the u and q thanks
 
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Think about what's the electric field inside the sphere (copper is a conductor!).
 
vanhees71 said:
Think about what's the electric field inside the sphere (copper is a conductor!).
Q=R^2E/k , v=kQ/R
use these two?
 
Pretty sure there was a theorem that said the electric field inside an isolated conductor is zero, but the potential has the same value at all points on the surface whether inside the surface or not. That is, the potential is the same at the center as it would be anywhere else on the conductor.

This is because the charge distributes itself uniformly on the surface of a spherical conductor.
 

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