Electric Field Between Two Cylinders

What is the electric field in the space between the two cylinders?

The electric field in the space between the two cylinders is directed radially outward from the common axis of the cylinders and is uniform. Its magnitude depends on the linear charge density of the long charged cylinder.

Answer

The electric field in the space between the two cylinders is directed radially outward from the common axis of the cylinders and is uniform. Its magnitude depends on the linear charge density of the long charged cylinder.

Electric fields play a crucial role in the interaction between charged objects. In the case of two cylinders, the electric field in the space between them is determined by their geometry and charge distribution.

When a long charged cylinder with linear charge density λ is surrounded by a hollow co-axial conducting cylinder, the electric field between them is radial and uniform. This means that the electric field lines point outward from the common axis of the cylinders, and their magnitude is directly influenced by the linear charge density of the long charged cylinder.

This phenomenon can be explained using Gauss's law, which provides a method for calculating the electric field in situations with a high degree of symmetry, such as the setup of the two cylinders. By applying Gauss's law, it becomes apparent that the electric field between the cylinders is uniform and depends on the charge distribution of the long cylinder.

Understanding the behavior of electric fields between cylinders is essential in various practical applications, including in electrical engineering and physics. By grasping the concepts behind the electric field interactions between charged objects, researchers and engineers can develop innovative solutions and technologies that rely on electrostatic forces.