Two spherical concentric shells have radius R and 2R. The inner shell ...
Introduction:
The net electrostatic potential energy stored in the space between two spherical concentric shells can be determined by considering the potential energy associated with each shell separately and then subtracting the potential energy of the inner shell from the potential energy of the outer shell.
Calculation:
1. Potential Energy of Inner Shell:
The potential energy of a charged spherical shell can be calculated using the formula:
U_inner = (k * Q^2) / (2 * R_inner),
where U_inner is the potential energy of the inner shell, k is the electrostatic constant, Q is the charge on the inner shell, and R_inner is the radius of the inner shell.
2. Potential Energy of Outer Shell:
Similarly, the potential energy of the outer shell can be calculated using the formula:
U_outer = (k * Q^2) / (2 * R_outer),
where U_outer is the potential energy of the outer shell, R_outer is the radius of the outer shell.
3. Net Potential Energy:
The net potential energy stored in the space between the two shells can be obtained by subtracting the potential energy of the inner shell from the potential energy of the outer shell:
Net Potential Energy = U_outer - U_inner.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the net electrostatic potential energy stored in the space between the two spherical concentric shells is given by the formula Net Potential Energy = (k * Q^2) / (2 * R_outer) - (k * Q^2) / (2 * R_inner). By calculating the individual potential energies of the inner and outer shells and subtracting them, we can determine the net potential energy.