Understanding the Vacuum Debye Screening Length: Importance and Calculation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the concept of vacuum Debye screening length, with participants questioning its validity since screening length inherently involves the presence of charges. The term "vacuum" is clarified to mean "air vacuum," distinguishing it from absolute vacuum. The conversation also addresses a specific problem regarding the electrostatic potential of a dielectric spherical cavity with a point charge inside, highlighting two solutions based on whether the Debye length is considered zero or not. Participants seek guidance on which solution to apply when the cavity is in an air vacuum. The need for clarity in terminology and context is emphasized throughout the discussion.
eftrsd
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
What is the correct value for the vacuum Debye screening length?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
eftrsd said:
What is the correct value for the vacuum Debye screening length?

Can you cite a reference for the existence of "vacuum Debye screening length"?

This term makes no sense, because, by definition, the screening length is caused by the presence of other charges (such as a plasma), meaning it is NOT a vacuum. One may consider the plasma to be in a vacuum background for calculation purposes, but this is far from being a vacuum.

Zz.
 
Thanks Zz for replying. I should have said "air vacuum" which is not the absolute vacuum, of course.
My question is in fact related to a specific problem: The electrostatic potential of a dielectric spherical cavity due to point charge located within it. There are two solutions: one is for Debye length= 0 and one for otherwise. If the cavity is embedded in air\vacuum.. which solution should one consider?
eftrsd.
 

Thread 'The Physics of unloading sand from a barge'

I think it's easist first to watch a short vidio clip I find these videos very relaxing to watch .. I got to thinking is this being done in the most efficient way? The sand has to be suspended in the water to move it to the outlet ... The faster the water , the more turbulance and the sand stays suspended, so it seems to me the rule of thumb is the hose be aimed towards the outlet at all times .. Many times the workers hit the sand directly which will greatly reduce the water...
View full post »

Similar threads

B Calculating vacuum -- These numbers do not make sense
Replies
30
Views
3K
I Does the Debye Length Change with Applied Potential Strength in a Plasma?
Replies
2
Views
2K
A Question about cgs vs SI units in the context of the Debye Length
Replies
3
Views
2K
A Debye Model Q&A: Interpreting Expression & Link to Einstein's
Replies
3
Views
3K
I Question about the Debye model of solids
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Questions on Debye's Model of solids
Replies
1
Views
2K
B Problem understanding Paul traps
Replies
1
Views
936
I Temperature limits on Debye's Calculationp
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Unconventional methods for pumping down a vacuum chamber?
Replies
10
Views
2K
A What is the relationship between focal length and focus point in convex lenses?
Replies
12
Views
5K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top