Question

Under electrostatic condition of a charged conductor, which among the following statements is true?

• A. The electric field on the surface of a charged conductor is \(\frac{\sigma}{2\epsilon_0}\) , where σ is the surface charge density
• B. The electric potential inside a charged conductor is always zero
• C. Any excess charge resides on the surface of the conductor
• D. The net electric filed is tangential to the surface of the conductor

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Let's evaluate each statement in relation to electrostatic conditions of a charged conductor.

Option (A): The electric field on the surface of a charged conductor is \( \frac{\sigma}{\epsilon_0} \), where \( \sigma \) is the surface charge density

This statement is correct, as the electric field at the surface of a conductor under electrostatic conditions is given by the formula:

\[ E = \frac{\sigma}{\epsilon_0} \]

So, this statement is true.

Option (B): The electric potential inside a charged conductor is always zero

This is incorrect. The electric potential inside a charged conductor is constant, but it is not always zero. It depends on the configuration of the conductor.

Option (C): Any excess charge resides on the surface of the conductor

This statement is correct. Under electrostatic conditions, any excess charge on a conductor resides on its surface. This is due to the repulsion of like charges, causing them to spread out evenly across the surface.

Option (D): The net electric field is tangential to the surface of the conductor

This is incorrect. The net electric field inside the conductor is zero, and the field at the surface is normal (perpendicular) to the surface of the conductor.

The correct answer is (C) Any excess charge resides on the surface of the conductor.

Answer 2

In electrostatic equilibrium, the excess charge on a conductor resides entirely on its surface. This is because the charges repel each other and move to the outermost surface to minimize repulsion.  
- Option (A) is incorrect because the electric field inside a conductor is zero.  
- Option (B) is incorrect as the electric potential is constant inside a conductor, not zero.  
- Option (D) is incorrect because the electric field is normal (perpendicular) to the surface of a conductor in electrostatic equilibrium.  

Thus, the correct answer is that excess charge resides on the surface of the conductor.