In what direction does the sphere move between two positive charges

In summary, the conversation discusses the polarization of a conductor and the presence of surface charges when a dielectric is introduced. The reasoning for a specific question is questioned, but it is explained that the presence of a dielectric does not eliminate the electric field, but rather creates smaller surface charges. The concept is compared to a charged balloon near a wall.
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okgo
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Homework Statement



http://www.screencast.com/users/trinhn812/folders/Jing/media/8fe997e1-46e5-4033-a246-fbad0acb7162

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I understand that in question 25, the conductor becomes polarized and its negative charges will be more attracted toward the bigger 5uC charge, but what's the reasoning for question 26? I don't get why the answer isn't C. Don't dieletrics kill the electric field?
 
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  • #2
The dielectric can be polarized. So you can also have surface charges, but instead of them being free, they are now bound. Then you will get a surface charge density much like the conductor but much smaller in magnitude.

EDIT: Very similar to a balloon that you statically charge then hold it near a wall. The wall is a dielectric and will be attracted to the charged balloon.
 
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1. What is the direction of the sphere's movement between two positive charges?

The direction of the sphere's movement between two positive charges depends on the relative positions and strengths of the charges. It will move in the direction of the stronger charge, towards it if the two charges are of equal strength, or towards the resulting net charge if the two charges are of unequal strength.

2. Why does the sphere move between two positive charges?

The sphere moves between two positive charges because of the electrostatic force between them. Positive charges repel each other, so the sphere experiences a force in the direction away from the positive charge it is closer to and towards the positive charge it is further from.

3. Can the sphere move in a different direction between two positive charges?

Yes, the sphere's movement between two positive charges can be influenced by other factors such as the presence of other charges or external forces. However, the electrostatic force between the two positive charges will still be the dominant factor in determining the direction of movement.

4. Will the sphere always move in a straight line between two positive charges?

No, the sphere's movement between two positive charges may not always be in a straight line. This is because the electrostatic force between the two charges may not be the only force acting on the sphere, and other factors such as friction or external forces may cause the sphere to deviate from a straight path.

5. How does the distance between the two positive charges affect the direction of the sphere's movement?

The distance between the two positive charges does not directly affect the direction of the sphere's movement. However, as the distance between the charges decreases, the strength of the electrostatic force between them increases, which may result in a change in the direction of the sphere's movement.

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