Final Answer:
None of the above options accurately describe the electric field and electric potential inside the charged solid spherical conductor in electrostatic equilibrium.(Option G)
Step-by-step explanation:
In electrostatic equilibrium within a solid spherical conductor, the electric field inside the conductor must be zero. This is due to the fact that in equilibrium, charges redistribute themselves on the surface of the conductor, creating an electric field that is perpendicular to the surface, causing the interior to have a net zero field. This redistribution of charges occurs until the electric field within the conductor becomes zero, ensuring no further movement of charges.(Option G)
Regarding the electric potential, inside the conductor in electrostatic equilibrium, it remains constant throughout the interior. This is a consequence of the electric field being zero within the conductor. By definition, the electric potential is the amount of work done in bringing a unit positive charge from infinity to a point in space. For a conductor, this means the potential is uniform inside when in electrostatic equilibrium.
The reasoning behind this behavior involves Gauss's law and the properties of conductors. Gauss's law states that the electric flux through a closed surface is proportional to the charge enclosed by the surface. For a solid spherical conductor, the charge resides only on the surface in an electrostatic situation. Due to the spherical symmetry of the conductor, the electric field within the conductor is zero.
Therefore, contrary to the options presented, the correct characterization for a charged solid spherical conductor in electrostatic equilibrium is that the electric field inside is zero, and the electric potential remains constant throughout its interior. This behavior is essential in understanding the distribution of charges and the resulting electric properties within conductors.
Here is complete question;
"Which of the following accurately characterizes the electric field and electric potential inside a charged solid spherical conductor that is in electrostatic equilibrium?
A. The electric field is zero and the electric potential is constant throughout the conductor.
B. The electric field is nonzero and varies depending on the distance from the center, while the electric potential remains constant.
C. Both the electric field and electric potential are zero within the conductor.
D. The electric field and electric potential both vary based on the charge distribution within the conductor.
E. The electric field is directed radially outward from the center and the electric potential decreases with increasing distance from the center of the conductor.
F. The electric field is directed radially inward towards the center and the electric potential increases with increasing distance from the center of the conductor.
G. None of the above options accurately describe the electric field and electric potential inside the charged solid spherical conductor in electrostatic equilibrium."