A spherical conducting shell of inner ra | Class 12 Physics Chapter Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance, Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 2 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics - Chapter Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 15:

A spherical conducting shell of inner radius r1 and outer radius r2 has a charge Q.

(a) A charge q is placed at the centre of the shell. What is the surface charge density on the inner and outer surfaces of the shell?

(b) Is the electric field inside a cavity (with no charge) zero, even if the shell is not spherical, but has any irregular shape? Explain.

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 15:

A spherical conducting shell of inner radius r1 and outer radius r2 has a charge Q.

(a) A charge q is placed at the centre of the shell. What is the surface charge density on the inner and outer surfaces of the shell?

(b) Is the electric field inside a cavity (with no charge) zero, even if the shell is not spherical, but has any irregular shape? Explain.

Answer:

(a) Charge placed at the centre of a shell is +q. Hence, a charge of magnitude - q will be induced to the inner surface of the shell. Therefore, total charge on the inner surface of the shell is - q.

Surface charge density at the inner surface of the shell is given by the relation,

A charge of +q is induced on the outer surface of the shell. A charge of magnitude Q is placed on the outer surface of the shell. Therefore, total charge on the outer surface of the shell is Q + q. Surface charge density at the outer surface of the shell,

(b) Yes

The electric field intensity inside a cavity is zero, even if the shell is not spherical and has any irregular shape. Take a closed loop such that a part of it is inside the cavity along a field line while the rest is inside the conductor. Net work done by the field in carrying a test charge over a closed loop is zero because the field inside the conductor is zero. Hence, electric field is zero, whatever is the shape.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Comments

  • Nasif
  • May 10, 2019

Why is Q charge not indused


  • Deepshikha
  • May 05, 2019

Thanks 😇😇😇


  • Saranya
  • Mar 17, 2019

How to prepare for JEE


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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 15: A spherical conducting shell of inner radius r1 and outer radius r2 has a charge Q. (a) A charge ....

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