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AP · AP C:E&M · multiple choice

AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism · Question 1

AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism · Original GioPhysics question with a detailed, mark-by-mark answer guide.

Demand
demanding
Marks
1
Topics
1
Answer
Complete
multiple choice1 mark

A solid conducting sphere of radius R carries a total charge Q distributed on its surface. What is the magnitude of the electric field at a distance r from the centre, where r < R?

  1. A

    zero

  2. B

    Qr/(4πε₀R³)

  3. C

    Q/(4πε₀r²)

  4. D

    Q/(4πε₀R²)

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Answer overviewCorrect answer: A — zero
01

Answer and reasoning

1 mark
How to approach it

Predict from the governing principle before looking for a matching option. Then reject alternatives by checking direction, units, limiting behaviour or the physical meaning of each statement.

  1. 1

    The correct choice is A: zero

  2. 2

    B is the field inside a uniformly charged insulating sphere and is the trap: the word conducting is what decides the answer. A Gaussian surface inside a conductor in electrostatic equilibrium encloses no charge, so the field is zero.

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