Why do we consider induction a way of charging?

In summary: When you induce a charge on an object, you are creating a potential difference (voltage) between the charges. You can think of this as a kind of "wall" of potential energy that exists between the charges. This wall of potential energy can be visualized as a long, thin line, stretching between the charges.If you then TOUCH the object, electrons can be repelled even further from N - on to YOU, and probably via you to the ground. The conductor now has a positive charge. Let go of it, THEN remove N, and the conductor will be left with an overall positive charge.
  • #1
explainplease
9
1
I get that by getting a charged object near an uncharged one, charges of the opposite sign are induced on the surface, but, since the total charge of the whole object is still zero (because electrons move inside the conductor and can't escape because surroundings insulate it) , the object as a whole can't be considered charged, only the surface, so why would we call induction a means of charging while the net charge of the object doesn't change?
 
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  • #2
explainplease said:
I get that by getting a charged object near an uncharged one, charges of the opposite sign are induced on the surface, but, since the total charge of the whole object is still zero (because electrons move inside the conductor and can't escape because surroundings insulate it) , the object as a whole can't be considered charged, only the surface, so why would we call induction a means of charging while the net charge of the object doesn't change?

Imagine inducing a charge difference on a long rod. One end is positive, the other negative. Now cut the rod in half. Now you have two separate objects, each with a net charge.

This is what we mean by "charging by induction". You induce a charge across an object, then cut the connection between the charged ends.
 
  • #3
axemaster said:
Imagine inducing a charge difference on a long rod. One end is positive, the other negative. Now cut the rod in half. Now you have two separate objects, each with a net charge.

This is what we mean by "charging by induction". You induce a charge across an object, then cut the connection between the charged ends.

so if i didn't cut the object, then i haven't charged it because the net charge would remain zero right?

Thank you :)
 
  • #4
I'd add to axemaster's reply that you don't necessarily have to cut the object to be charged in half, to isolate net charge. Suppose the object to be charged is a conductor, and that you hold it near a negatively charged object, N. Then free electrons in the conductor will be repelled towards the parts of the conductor furthest from N. If you now TOUCH the object, electrons can be repelled even further from N - on to YOU, and probably via you to the ground. The conductor now has a positive charge. Let go of it, THEN remove N, and the conductor will be left with an overall positive charge.

The same works, making necessary changes to the explanation, for charging a conductor negatively using an external positive object.

A better explanation of what goes on in each case uses the idea of potential.
 
  • #5


Induction is considered a way of charging because it involves the transfer of charge from one object to another. Although the overall charge of the object may still be zero, the redistribution of charges on the surface of the object still results in a change in its electric field. This change in electric field can have practical applications, such as creating a spark or attracting other charged objects. Additionally, the concept of charging by induction is important in understanding the behavior of electric fields and how they interact with charged objects. So even though the net charge of the object may not change, the redistribution of charges on its surface still has significant effects and therefore can be considered a form of charging.
 

1. Why is induction considered a way of charging?

Induction is considered a way of charging because it involves the transfer of electrons between two objects without physical contact. This results in one object becoming positively charged and the other becoming negatively charged, thus creating an electric potential difference between the two objects.

2. How does induction charging work?

In induction charging, an object with a strong electric field is brought close to a neutral object. This electric field causes the electrons in the neutral object to shift, resulting in one side of the object becoming positively charged and the other becoming negatively charged. This separation of charges is what creates the electric potential difference and charges the object.

3. Is induction charging safe?

Yes, induction charging is generally considered safe as it does not involve physical contact or the use of direct current. However, it is important to use induction charging devices that are properly designed and approved for safety.

4. What are the advantages of induction charging?

Induction charging eliminates the need for physical contact between the charging device and the object being charged. This makes it more convenient and efficient, especially for charging multiple devices at once. It also reduces the risk of electric shocks and damage to charging ports.

5. Are there any limitations to induction charging?

Induction charging is limited by the distance between the charging device and the object being charged. The strength of the electric field decreases with distance, so the object being charged must be within a certain range for it to be effective. It also requires special equipment and technology, making it less accessible than other forms of charging.

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