Question

Choose the correct statement out of the following for a Gaussian surface.

• A. It must not pass through any discrete charge
• B. It may pass through a continuous charge distribution
• C. It may pass through a region where no medium is present
• D. All of the above.

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above.

$\left(1\right)$ Gaussian surface must not pass through a discrete charge as at the location of the discrete charge $\overrightarrow{E}$ is not defined.

$\left(2\right)$ Gaussian surface can pass through a continuous charge distribution as $\overrightarrow{E}$ is defined at all points due to a continuous charge distribution (in general).

(3) Gaussian surface can pass through any region.

Based on these observations, all of the options $\left(a\right)$, $\left(b\right)$ and $\left(c\right)$ are correct.
Hence, option $\left(d\right)$ is correct.