# Why isn;t the electric field at all points within concentric metal spheres zero? [closed]

Consider the question:

A solid metal sphere of radius a, carrying a charge of +q, is placed inside and concentric with a neutral hollow metal sphere of inner radius b and outer radius c. Determine the electric field for $$rc$$. Also describe the charge distributions. Diagram to illustrate:

Now, the solution goes as follows:-

For $$r-the electric field is 0 because no field can exist within a conductor.

For $$a-the inner sphere acts as a point charge so by gauss's law:-E=q/4πε0 r^2

For $$b-The E is 0 as no E can exist within the body of a conductor

For $$r>c$$:-The E acts as if the charge is at a point at center:-so E=q/4πε0 r^2

Now, I only agree with the last one($$r>c$$). I disagree with the others because I have read that the E within a conductor is 0 and and The sphere with radius c is a conductor, so that should mean that E=0 for $$r. The charge distribution should be something like:-

This would give E=0 at all points. But the solution just gives -q at radius b and +q at radius c.

This question is really puzzling me and any help in clarifying this doubt will be greatly appreciated.

## closed as off-topic by G. Smith, John Rennie, GiorgioP, Yashas, ZeroTheHeroMay 12 at 19:54

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• “Within a conductor” means “in the material of a conductor”. The solution is correct. If the field were zero between the spheres, Gauss’ Law would be violated. – G. Smith May 10 at 6:02