Why is the electric field inside a conductor zero?

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SUMMARY

The electric field inside a conductor is zero in electrostatic conditions, as established by Gauss's law. This phenomenon occurs because free charges within the conductor redistribute themselves until the internal electric field is neutralized. This principle applies to both symmetrical conductors, such as spheres and cylinders, and asymmetrical conductors, where the movement of free charges ensures that any internal electric field is canceled out. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding charge distribution and electrostatic equilibrium in conductors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Gauss's Law
  • Electrostatics
  • Charge Distribution
  • Conductor Properties
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical derivation of Gauss's Law
  • Explore electrostatic equilibrium in non-symmetrical conductors
  • Investigate the behavior of free charges in conductors under various conditions
  • Learn about applications of electrostatics in real-world scenarios
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Physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of electrostatics and conductor behavior.

Arup Biswas
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It can be mathematically shown by Gauss's law that it is true but physically how? In case of a symmetrical conductor(Eg Sphere,Cyllinder) there are charges uniformly distributed and field of one charge cancels out the opposite charge's field! But which are not symmetrical, for them what makes the electric field zero?
 
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Note that the field within a conductor is zero for the electrostatic case. If there were a field within the conductor, the free charges would move until the field was canceled out.
 
Doc Al said:
Note that the field within a conductor is zero for the electrostatic case. If there were a field within the conductor, the free charges would move until the field was canceled out.
Thought a lot about it...and got it [emoji5] thanks mate
 

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