Why is the electric field strong in sharp points?

In summary, the electric field is stronger near sharp points due to the increased divergence of the field lines. This can be explained intuitively as a conformal map, where the sharper geometry leads to closer field lines and a higher local intensity. This information can be found in the University Physics book by Young and Freedman, after the chapter on Gauss Law and before the chapter on electric potential.
  • #1
iampaul
93
0
Why is the electric field strong in sharp points??

There is a question in my book regarding the intensity of the electric field near a sharp surface in a conductor. There is a hint which says that it will be helpful to examine the field lines near those sharp surfaces. This is from my University Physics book by young and freedman after a chapter about gauss law, and before the chapter about electric potential. Please reply. Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


The divergence of the field becomes greater in sharp points. You can easily explain this intuitively if you think of it as a conformal map. As the geometry becomes sharper locally, the field lines come closer to each other, increasing the divergence of the field and thus, the local intensity.
 

1. Why do sharp points have a stronger electric field compared to flat surfaces?

Sharp points have a stronger electric field because they have a smaller radius of curvature, which results in a higher concentration of electric field lines. This increased concentration of field lines leads to a stronger electric field.

2. How does the shape of an object affect the strength of the electric field?

The shape of an object can affect the strength of the electric field in several ways. Objects with sharp points or edges have a higher concentration of electric field lines, resulting in a stronger electric field. Additionally, objects with a larger surface area will have a weaker electric field compared to objects with a smaller surface area.

3. Does the material of an object affect the strength of the electric field?

Yes, the material of an object can affect the strength of the electric field. Conductive materials, such as metals, have a higher concentration of free electrons which can move more easily in response to an applied electric field. This results in a stronger electric field compared to non-conductive materials.

4. Are there any practical applications of strong electric fields in sharp points?

Yes, there are several practical applications of strong electric fields in sharp points. One example is in lightning rods, where the sharp point on top of a building helps to attract lightning strikes and dissipate the electric charge safely into the ground. Other applications include electron microscopy, plasma generation, and electrostatic precipitators.

5. Is there a limit to how strong an electric field can be in a sharp point?

Yes, there is a limit to how strong an electric field can be in a sharp point. This limit is known as the electric breakdown strength and is dependent on factors such as the material of the point, the surrounding environment, and the geometry of the point. Once this limit is reached, the electric field can cause the air or material surrounding the point to break down and become conductive.

Similar threads

Replies
3
Views
346
Replies
4
Views
893
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
812
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
739
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
793
Back
Top