How Does Charge Distribute Between Two Concentric Shells Connected by a Wire?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the charge distribution between two concentric conductive shells connected by a wire, with a total charge of 100 nC. The ratio of the radii of the shells is given as R2/R1 = 6. Using the formula Q1/Q2 = R1/R2, the final charge distribution is determined to be 14.3 nC on the inner shell and 85.7 nC on the outer shell. The conclusion emphasizes that no charge accumulates on the outer shell due to the lack of an electric field between the shells.

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  • Understanding of electrostatics and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with conductive materials and their properties
  • Knowledge of Gaussian surfaces and electric fields
  • Ability to apply the formula Q1/Q2 = R1/R2
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  • Learn about Gaussian surfaces and their applications in electrostatics
  • Explore charge distribution in systems with multiple conductive bodies
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Students preparing for exams in physics, particularly those focusing on electrostatics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to charge distribution in conductive materials.

Conductivity
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Homework Statement


The problem states:
2 concentric shells made out of conductive materials as in the diagram. R2/ R1 = 6. If the shells were charged with a total charge of 100 nc the connected with a wire, Then the final charge on both shells would be?
1) 33.3, 66.7 2) 30, 70 3) 20, 80 4) 50,50 5) 14.3,85.7

Homework Equations


Voltage at both end points of the wire should be the same

The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldn't all the charge go to the outer shell? So it will be 0, 100

The solution provided used this formula:
Q1/ Q2 = R1/R2
https://prnt.sc/jmp453

Where we only used this formula for the case of two really far conducting shells connected with a wire.

Exam tomorrow, Thank you in advance.
 
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While I’m sure someone will respond, my suggestion is to seek out a fellow student and see if you both can work this out since you’re concerned about your exam and we may not answer in time.
 
Conductivity said:
Shouldn't all the charge go to the outer shell?
It should. No potential difference between the two shells means no electric field. No field means no charge: a Gaussian volume, spherical, just inside the outer shell should not contain any charge.

Your answer is correct.
 
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