Using image theory for finite electrostatic problems-some observations and guidelines

The following question is examined: can image theory be used to provide reasonably accurate results for electrostatic problems involving finite conducting structures? The moment method is used in this investigation to determine the surface charge distribution induced on a finite conducting plane by a point charge above the plane. The size of the plane and position of the charge are arbitrary. Results are compared with those obtained from image theory for various point charge positions. These results can provide guidelines regarding when it is appropriate to use image theory to obtain reasonably accurate results for electrostatic problems involving finite conducting structures