The dimensions of an atom are on the order of an angstrom, implying very strong electric fields between electrons and protons. Yet, the electrostatic field inside a conductor is zero in electrostatic equilibrium. What explains this phenomenon?
| 1. | Because protons and electrons cancel each other's fields everywhere inside the conductor |
| 2. | Free electrons in a conductor rearrange themselves to exactly cancel internal electric fields |
| 3. | The net charge in a conductor is always zero, so the field is zero |
| 4. | Conductors block electric fields due to their high density |
The protons and electrons are bound in an atom with a distinct and independent existence and neutral in charge. Electrostatic fields are caused by the presence of excess charges. But there can be no excess charge on the inner surface of an isolated conductor. So, the electrostatic field inside a conductor is zero despite the fact that the dimensions of an atom are of the order of an Angstrom.
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