By using Gauss' law, can the electric field be p/(pi*ε*r^2)

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of flux through a closed surface, specifically through the end caps and lateral area of a cylinder. The first method suggests using the surface area of a cylinder as πr^2L, while the second method is simpler and assumes a radial field. The validity and accuracy of the first method is questioned.
  • #1
adamaero
109
1
Homework Statement
By using Gauss' law, can the electric field be p/(pi*ε*r^2) instead of p/(2*pi*ε*r) where "p" is the charge distribution?
Relevant Equations
Q = p*l
Which is better to use? The equation for the area or the circumference of a circle?
1564439256948.png

Schaum's Electromagnetics (4 ed) by Edminister
vs
1564439431674.png

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electric/elecyl.html
 
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  • #2
You should be able to figure out the answer to your question on your own. Do you know how to calculate flux?
 
  • #3
You could also check dimensions, which every physics student should. Of course, that is not what is asked for here but you should nevertheless always do it.
 
  • #4
Note that you must add both the flux through the end caps as well as that through the lateral area to get the total flux through a closed surface. However, the field is radial and therefore the flux theough the end caps is zero.
 
  • #5
vela said:
You should be able to figure out the answer to your question on your own. Do you know how to calculate flux?
The flux in the second way is easy, the first method, however, is somewhat ambiguous. It is suggesting that ##\rho=r/2##.
 
  • #6
The first method seems simply wrong; it assumes the surface area of a cylinder is πr2L, rather than 2πrL. The answer is dimensionally wrong.
 
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Related to By using Gauss' law, can the electric field be p/(pi*ε*r^2)

1. What is Gauss' law?

Gauss' law is a fundamental law in electromagnetism that relates the electric flux through a closed surface to the charge enclosed within that surface. It states that the electric flux through a closed surface is equal to the total charge enclosed divided by the permittivity of free space (ε).

2. How is Gauss' law used to determine the electric field?

Gauss' law can be used to determine the electric field at a point by considering a closed surface surrounding that point. The electric flux through the surface is calculated and then equated to the charge enclosed divided by the permittivity of free space. This allows for the calculation of the electric field at that point.

3. Can Gauss' law be used for any type of charge distribution?

Yes, Gauss' law can be used for any type of charge distribution as long as the closed surface surrounds the entire charge distribution. This includes point charges, line charges, and surface charges.

4. What is the significance of the term p/(pi*ε*r^2) in Gauss' law?

The term p/(pi*ε*r^2) represents the electric field at a point due to a point charge p. It is an important part of Gauss' law as it allows for the calculation of the electric field at a point without having to consider the specific charge distribution.

5. Are there any limitations to using Gauss' law to calculate the electric field?

Yes, Gauss' law assumes that the charge distribution is static and there are no time-varying magnetic fields present. It also only applies to electrostatics and cannot be used for dynamic or electromagnetic situations.

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