Work

Conceptual Compression and Pedagogical Failure in Electrostatics: A Re-examination of Gauss's Law Inside Charged Spheres

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper critically examines the widely taught claim that the electric field inside a charged sphere is zero, arguing that its unqualified presentation constitutes a pedagogical oversimplification. Using Gauss’s Law as a unifying framework, the study systematically compares conducting and insulating spheres, both solid and hollow, emphasizing the essential roles of charge mobility, symmetry, and material properties. By integrating insights from Physics Education Research and advanced theoretical concepts such as the Uniqueness Theorem and charge relaxation time, the paper exposes the roots of persistent student misconceptions. An assumption-centered instructional protocol is proposed to replace rote memorization with conceptually robust reasoning in electrostatics education.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18605602

Authors: Kazi Mahir, Adeeb, Abuhena, Shuvro, Kazi, Tasnufa, Abdullah Al, Noman

Institution: Govt. Sundarban Adarsha College, Khulna

Language: English

Topic: Science Education and Pedagogy

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7128647123

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