Calculating Charges Using Coulomb's Law and Slope Analysis

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the charge on spheres using Coulomb's Law and slope analysis from experimental data collected with a Van de Graaff Generator (VdGG). The force constant used is k = 9x10^9 nm²/C², and the slope derived from the graph is 3.81x10^-4 Nm². The relationship established is |Q1|*|Q2| = slope/k, which is essential for determining the individual charges on the spheres. Participants suggest using the equation Q1*C1 = Q2*C2 = V to relate the charges and voltages of the spheres.

PREREQUISITES
  • Coulomb's Law and its mathematical formulation
  • Understanding of electric charge and capacitance
  • Graphing techniques for data analysis
  • Basic knowledge of experimental physics and lab equipment
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Coulomb's Law in electrostatics
  • Learn about capacitance and the relationship between charge, voltage, and capacitance
  • Explore data analysis techniques for interpreting experimental results
  • Investigate the principles of electric fields and forces in conductive materials
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and researchers interested in electrostatics, experimental physics, and data analysis techniques related to charge calculations.

dba
Messages
29
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


In our physics lab about the Coulomb's law we had an Van de Graaff Generator (VdGG) to produce a charge and we had a sphere covered with foil (a conductor) which was hang up next to the VdGG. When the VdGG produced charged the sphere was attracted to it and finally touched th VdGG and became charged also. The result was that the sphere then was repelled.
We took measurements of the process and then drew a graph, from which we received a slope (of a straight line)
We did 5 trails, and receive data for 1/r^2 and F for each trail.

Homework Equations


The question is: From the slope, using Coulomb's law with the given force constant k = 9x10^9 nm^2/C^2, determine the charge Q on the speres in the units Coulomb.

The Attempt at a Solution


So, the Coulomb's Law is:

F = k * |Q1|*|Q2|\r^2

The slope = k * |Q1|*|Q2| = 3.81x10^-4 Nm^2

So the charges Q are
|Q1|*|Q2| = slope/k

I do not know how I can calculate the single charges.

Thanks for any help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
When the balls touch, they attain the same voltage. Each is a different capacitor. You can use
Q1*C1 = Q2*C2 = V.

There may be an easier way, let's hear from others too since you don't seem to have lab data on both electrodes.
 

Similar threads

Replies
11
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
5K
Replies
6
Views
8K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
6K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K