Why is E-field 0 outside of this sphere?

In summary, in this conversation, we discuss the concept of grounding a conducting spherical shell. Grounding the shell means setting its electric potential to zero, which results in a zero electric field outside the shell. This also means that the net charge on the outer surface of the shell is zero. In part b) of the conversation, it is mentioned that the electric field is zero for r > c, and this is because of the grounding of the shell. In part c), the answer should be the integral from r = a to r = b, not r = c, as c is the surface of the other sphere. Grounding the shell allows for a cancellation of the electric field inside the material, and this is why the potential difference is not
  • #1
flyingpig
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Homework Statement



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2. Solutions

For b) - iv

They say the E-field is 0 for r > c

Why?

Also for part c), they say the answer should be the integral from r = a to r = b.

My question is, why isn't it from r = a to r = c (c is the surface of the other sphere)?

What does "grounding" the sphere actually tell you?
 
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  • #2
Since the outer sphere is a conducting sphere the charges will be attracted to one side of the sphere due to the electric field caused by the charge at the center. So the field when the charge is positive is directed radially outward, this causes the elctrons to move to the inner part of the sphere while leaving the outer part positively charged and thus a field is generated inside the material which cancels the field of the charge.

For you final question the field in the outer sphere is zero and therefore the potential difference is not altered within the conducting shell since it has no magnetic field inside.

If you have any questions please ask!
 
  • #3
Grounding the spherical shell means that its electric potential is made to be zero. Therefore, you know that the electric field outside the shell is zero. Also, the net charge on the outer surface of the shell is zero.
 

Related to Why is E-field 0 outside of this sphere?

1. Why is the electric field zero outside of a sphere?

The electric field is zero outside of a sphere because the electric field lines are radial, meaning they point directly away from the center of the sphere. As you move further away from the sphere, the field lines become more spread out, resulting in a weaker electric field until it eventually becomes zero.

2. What causes the electric field to be zero outside of a sphere?

The electric field outside of a sphere is caused by the charge distribution on the surface of the sphere. Due to the symmetry of the sphere, the electric field lines cancel each other out, resulting in a net electric field of zero.

3. Does this mean there is no electric field outside of a sphere?

No, there is still an electric field present outside of a sphere. However, the net electric field is zero due to the cancellation of the electric field lines from the charge distribution on the surface of the sphere.

4. How does the electric field change as you move further away from the sphere?

As you move further away from the sphere, the electric field becomes weaker. This is because the electric field lines are spread out over a larger area, resulting in a lower concentration of electric field lines and a weaker electric field.

5. What is the significance of the electric field being zero outside of a sphere?

The electric field being zero outside of a sphere is significant because it allows for a stable and balanced electric field around the sphere. This is important in many applications, such as in electronic devices, where a stable and controlled electric field is necessary for proper functioning.

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