Which Gaussian surfaces have an electric flux of +q/εo through them

In summary, a Gaussian surface is a hypothetical closed surface used to calculate the electric flux passing through it. The electric flux through a Gaussian surface is determined by multiplying the enclosed charge by the inverse of the permittivity of free space. A positive electric flux through a Gaussian surface indicates an outward directed electric field, meaning the enclosed charge is a source. Two specific shapes, a spherical surface with the enclosed charge at its center and a cylindrical surface with the enclosed charge along its axis, will always have an electric flux of +q/ε<sub>0</sub> through them. According to Gauss's Law, the electric flux through a Gaussian surface is directly proportional to the enclosed charge, so any changes in the enclosed charge will result in a
  • #1
Curious314
31
0
Which Gaussian surfaces have an electric flux of +q/εo through them?

I think is b
since in c, +q and -q cancel each other out, d is only -q

is that the right approach?

thanks!
 

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  • #2
Hi curious314! (Your user name reminds me of another PF member, Curious3141 :-p)

Welcome to PF.

Your approach to the problem is correct. :smile:
 

Related to Which Gaussian surfaces have an electric flux of +q/εo through them

1. What is a Gaussian surface?

A Gaussian surface is a hypothetical surface that is used to calculate the electric flux passing through it. It is a closed surface that can be any shape, but is usually chosen to be a symmetrical shape to simplify calculations.

2. How do you determine the electric flux through a Gaussian surface?

The electric flux through a Gaussian surface is determined using Gauss's Law, which states that the electric flux through a closed surface is equal to the net charge enclosed by that surface divided by the permittivity of free space (ε0). In other words, the electric flux through a Gaussian surface can be calculated by multiplying the charge enclosed by the surface by the inverse of ε0.

3. What does a positive electric flux through a Gaussian surface indicate?

A positive electric flux through a Gaussian surface indicates that the net electric field passing through the surface is directed outward. This means that the enclosed charge is a source of the electric field.

4. Are there any specific shapes of Gaussian surfaces that will always have an electric flux of +q/ε0 through them?

Yes, there are two specific shapes that will always have an electric flux of +q/ε0 through them. These are a spherical surface with the enclosed charge at its center, and a cylindrical surface with the enclosed charge along its axis.

5. How does the electric flux change if the charge enclosed by the Gaussian surface changes?

According to Gauss's Law, the electric flux through a Gaussian surface is directly proportional to the enclosed charge. This means that if the enclosed charge increases, the electric flux will also increase, and vice versa.

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