The electric field on a given gaussian surface is determined by all the charged particles in the entire universe. Nonetheless, the net flux of the electric field through that surface only depends on the charged particles inside that surface.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electric field at any point in space is indeed influenced by all charged particles in the universe according to Coulomb's law. However, according to Gauss's law, the net electric flux through a closed surface (Gaussian surface) depends solely on the net charge enclosed within that surface, not on charges located outside the surface.

The Electric Field on a Given Gaussian Surface Is Determined