Question

A spherical Gaussian surface encloses a charge of 8.85 x 10^-8C. (i) Calculate the electric flux passing through the surface, (ii) If the radius of the Gaussian surface is doubled, how would the flux change?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

(i)

we know that the flux linked with a Gaussian surface is given as

Φ = E.ds = q/ε₀

here,

q = 8.85x10^-8 C

ε₀ = 8.85x10^-12 F/m

so,

Φ = 8.85x10^-8 / 8.85x10^-12

thus, flux will be

Φ = 10⁴ Nm²/C

(ii)

The flux does not depend upon the size of the Gaussian surface but only on the charges enclosed. So, in this case also

Φ = 10⁴ Nm²/C.