For concentric conducting shells, the potential at any point = sum of contributions from all shell charges. At the inner shell (radius a, charge Q1) with outer shell (radius b, charge Q2): = + kQ2/b. = + kQ2/b. If outer shell is grounded ( = 0): Q2 = -Q1b/b... actually kQ1/b + kQ2/b = 0 gives Q2 = -Q1. If inner shell is grounded: kQ1/a + kQ2/b = 0, so Q1 = -aQ2/b. Grounding changes the charge distribution. The capacitance of the system: C = = 4pi**. These problems require careful bookkeeping of which shell has what charge and how grounding modifies charges.
Part of JES-02 — Electrostatic Potential, Capacitance & Energy
Potential of Concentric Shell Systems
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