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The $E$-field of an infinite plane with a uniform charge density $\sigma$ has a constant magnitude equaling $2\pi\sigma$.

Now, this magnitude assumes a continuous charge model throughout the plane.

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In reality, the plane is made up of discrete charges, which obey Coulomb's law. enter image description here

Does the continuous model accurately describe what happens just on top of the plane?

Hilbert
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1 Answers1

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No. The continuous model is an approximation which breaks down when you get too close to the discrete charges.

G. Smith
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