Can a Positively Charged Insulating Rod Charge Two Metal Spheres Differently?

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SUMMARY

A positively charged insulating rod can charge a metal sphere positively through contact, where the rod transfers some of its positive charge to the sphere. However, it cannot simultaneously charge two spheres differently without recharging. The process of charging by induction is crucial here; while the insulating rod cannot move charges freely, it can influence the distribution of charges in a nearby conductive sphere, allowing for a positive charge on one sphere and a negative charge on another if done sequentially, not simultaneously.

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Homework Statement



Expalin how a positively charged insulating rod can be used to give a metal sphere a positive charge. Cam the same rod be used to simultaneously give one sphere a psotive charge and another sphere a negative charge without the rod having to be recharged ??

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The Attempt at a Solution



So I said charge a ball with contact by using the rod. Then, that ball will be - charged. Use the ball to charge the other ball by contact then we have a + charged ball ? Is it true ?

How about the second part, I am not really sure.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
An insulating rod has no charges that are free to move around, so exactly how can it be used to give a metal sphere a positive charge? What do you know about charging by induction?
 

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