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Classical Electrodynamics

Classical Electrodynamics 3rd Edition

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  • Step 1 of 3


    Gauss law states that the electric field strength of a surface is times to the charge enclosed by the same surface. Mathematically, it can be written as,

    Write the Gauss law in integration form.

    Here, Q is the enclosed charge, A is the surface area, and is the permittivity of the free space.

    A conductor is defined as a material in which the conducting electrons move freely if an external electric field is applied. Now, place some amount of charge inside the conductor. The placed conducting electrons experience a repulsive electric force due to existing electrons. Since, the conducting electrons free to move, they moved to surface of the conductor. Thus, the excess charge lies completely on the surface.

  • Step 2 of 3


    Consider a closed hollow conductor. Now bring a collection of charges on the outside. Due to induction, the opposite charge induces on the surface of the closed conductor. These charge lies on the surface of the conductor. It opposes the charge that comes later like a shield.

    On the other hand, if charges are placed within the hollow part of the conductor. The electric fields exist throughout the interior because gauss’s law shows the electric field is non-zero for any surface within the interior which encloses the charges brought in.

  • Step 3 of 3


    Consider the Gaussian pillbox. Consider the Gaussian surface as shown below.

    Consider a Gaussian surface; the electric flux due to Gaussian surface is,

    Substitute for .

    Substitute for .

    Therefore, the electric field at the surface of a conductor is normal to the surface is.

Corresponding Textbook

Classical Electrodynamics 3rd edition 9780471309321 047130932X
Classical Electrodynamics | 3rd Edition
9780471309321ISBN-13: 047130932XISBN: John David JacksonAuthors: