Practice question
Question
A net flux of \( 9.04 \times 10^4 \, \text{Nm}^2/\text{C} \) passes through a closed surface. What is
the charge enclosed?
Explanation
**Gauss's theorem** states total flux through closed surface equals enclosed charge divided by free-space permittivity, Φ_total = q_enc/ε₀, ε₀ = 8.854×10⁻¹² C²/(N·m²). Result independent of shape or size, depends only on net enclosed charge, enabling charge determination from flux. Φ = (q/ε₀) . q = Φ ε₀ = 9.04 × 10⁴ × 8.854 × 10⁻¹² = 8 × 10⁻⁷ C = 0.8 μC . Substituting values gives 0.8 μC, which matches expected magnitude for this electrostatic configuration, confirming Coulomb's and Gauss's principles and charge quantization consistency.
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