Work done by electric force on a point charge in a cylinder?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the work done by electric force when moving a point charge inside a hollow charged cylinder. It is initially suggested that no work is done due to the equipotential nature of the cylinder's interior. Clarification is sought regarding whether the cylinder is a conductor or an insulator, with confirmation that it is a charged insulator. Participants agree that if the cylinder is uniformly charged and long, the electric potential inside remains constant. Therefore, the conclusion is that no work is done when moving the charge from point A to point B.
cesaravila
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Homework Statement



A point charge q is moved inside a hollow charged cylinder of radius R. The initial point A is a distance (3/4)R from the center and the final point B is at the center of the sphere. How much work is done by the electric force in this case?

2. The attempt at a solution

I am thinking that no work is done because its equipotential, but I am not certain its equipotential.
 
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cesaravila said:

Homework Statement



A point charge q is moved inside a hollow charged cylinder of radius R. The initial point A is a distance (3/4)R from the center and the final point B is at the center of the sphere. How much work is done by the electric force in this case?

2. The attempt at a solution

I am thinking that no work is done because its equipotential, but I am not certain its equipotential.
Hello cesaravila. Welcome to PF !

In one place you mention a cylinder. In another you mention a sphere.

Which is it ?
 
SammyS said:
Hello cesaravila. Welcome to PF !

In one place you mention a cylinder. In another you mention a sphere.

Which is it ?

It is a cylinder. The final point B is at the center of the cylinder.
 
Is the cylinder a conductor? A uniformly charged non-conductor? Any mention of the charge or charge density?
 
haruspex said:
Is the cylinder a conductor? A uniformly charged non-conductor? Any mention of the charge or charge density?


It is a charged insulator.
 
cesaravila said:
It is a charged insulator.
Assuming it is a uniform charge and a long cylinder, I agree the potential should be constant inside.
 
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