Insulator and conductor with electrostatic problems

In summary, the distinction between conductors and insulators in electrostatic problems is that the electric field in an insulator does not have to be zero, while the electric field in a conductor is always zero. This is based on experiments and is the basis for Gauss's law and Coulomb's law. A conductor allows a current to flow as long as there is an electric field, while an insulator does not. However, the line between conductor and insulator is subjective and depends on the voltage and current being used.
  • #1
member 392791
I was wondering, what is the distinction made with problems involving either conductors or insulators with electrostatic problems.

Is it that the electric field in an insulator doesn't have to be zero, whereas the electric field in a conductor is always 0?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
That's what experiments have shown and which were the basis for Gauss's law or the equivalent Coulomb's law.
 
  • #3
A conductor is an object in which a current will flow for as long as an electric field is present inside the object. From which of course follows that if no current is flowing inside a conductor there can't be an electric field there.
However in practice every substance is at least slightly conductive. So where you draw the line between conductor and insulator is arbitrary and depends on what kind of voltage and current you are working with.
 

Related to Insulator and conductor with electrostatic problems

1. What is the difference between an insulator and a conductor?

An insulator is a material that does not allow the flow of electricity, while a conductor is a material that allows the flow of electricity. Insulators have high resistance to electric current, while conductors have low resistance.

2. How do insulators and conductors behave in electrostatic problems?

In electrostatic problems, insulators and conductors behave differently. Insulators are unable to distribute charges evenly and can hold a static charge, while conductors can easily distribute and neutralize any static charge.

3. Can insulators and conductors be charged with static electricity?

Yes, both insulators and conductors can be charged with static electricity. However, the way they hold and distribute the charge will differ due to their differing properties.

4. What are some examples of insulators and conductors?

Insulators include materials such as rubber, glass, and plastic, while conductors include materials such as copper, silver, and gold. However, there are also materials that can act as both insulators and conductors, depending on the circumstances.

5. How does the charge distribution on an insulator differ from a conductor in an electrostatic problem?

The charge distribution on an insulator is uneven, with the charge primarily staying in one area. In contrast, the charge distribution on a conductor is even, as the charges can move freely throughout the material.

Similar threads

I Problem with one of the premises in electrostatic pressure theory
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
249
I Can the Last Maxwell's Equation Explain Polarization of a Wire's Insulator?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
874
B Conductors in the triboelectric series
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
848
I Alternating current in a perfect conductor
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
11
Views
863
I A question about the Second Uniqueness Theorem in electrostatics
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
11
Views
930
I Work done by electric field of an irregularly shaped conductor
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
603
Electric field Difference between Electrostatics and Electrodynamics
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
2K
A Voltage and current waves in a transmission line
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
1K
I Will insulation on electric power lines affect the flow of power?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
5
Views
1K
Excess charge on insulators and conductors
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top