Potential ground and electric charge

In summary, it is customary in electronics to define the potential of ground as zero, thinking of the Earth as a large conductor. However, this may not be consistent with the fact that the Earth has a net electric charge that is not zero. This is because the Earth is not a large conductor and has no net charge itself, although it is surrounded by a charged 'halo'. The fundamental property of ground in electronics is its ability to maintain a constant potential, rather than its resistance, which allows it to be declared as 'zero' potential.
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sami23
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In electronics it is customary to define the potential of ground (thinking of the Earth as a large conductor) as zero. Is this consistent with the fact that the Earth has a net electric charge that is not zero?
 
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sami23 said:
the Earth has a net electric charge that is not zero
Really? Do you have a reference for what the net charge on the Earth is?
 
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In electronics it is customary to define the potential of ground (thinking of the Earth as a large conductor) as zero. Is this consistent with the fact that the Earth has a net electric charge that is not zero?

I don't think either of these statements are correct.

The Earth is not a large conductor.
The Earth has no net charge itself , although it is surrounded by a charged 'halo' known as the Van Allen Belts.

The fundamental (electrical/electronic) property of an Earth or ground is that it does not change potential for any current flow within the normal circuit parameters, not that it has low or high resistance.
It is this property that allows the benchmark potenttial to be declared 'zero' in electronics.
 

What is potential ground?

Potential ground, also known as earth potential or ground potential, is the voltage level at a particular point on the earth's surface. It is used as a reference point for measuring electrical potential differences.

How is potential ground established?

Potential ground is established by connecting an electrical conductor to the ground, such as a metal rod or a wire, and then connecting that conductor to an electrical circuit or system. This allows excess electrical charge to flow into the ground and maintain a neutral potential.

What is electric charge?

Electric charge is a fundamental property of matter that causes it to experience a force when placed in an electromagnetic field. It is measured in units of coulombs and can be either positive or negative.

What are the two types of electric charge?

The two types of electric charge are positive and negative. Positive charge is associated with protons, while negative charge is associated with electrons. Like charges repel each other, while opposite charges attract.

How does electric charge affect potential ground?

Electric charge can affect potential ground by either raising or lowering its voltage level. For example, if a large amount of electric charge is added to the ground, it can increase the potential ground level and create a hazard for nearby objects or people. By contrast, if electric charge is removed from the ground, it can lower the potential ground level and potentially cause electrical equipment to malfunction.

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