The discussion revolves around the interaction between charged particles and neutral objects, specifically addressing the concepts of electric potential energy and charge polarization. Participants are exploring the nuances of electrostatic attraction and the behavior of electrons in response to nearby charged objects.
The conversation is actively exploring different interpretations of how charged objects interact with neutral ones, including the effects of charge separation and polarization. Some participants are providing insights into the mechanics of these interactions, while others are clarifying misconceptions about the nature of charged and neutral particles.
There is mention of the limitations of the potential energy equation in certain scenarios, and participants are considering the implications of charge movement in conductors versus insulators. The discussion also touches on the role of protons and neutrons in these interactions, indicating some confusion about their influence.
Are you asking about charged particles attracting neutral particles or neutral objects? (Like a charged rod attracting bits of paper.)Fusilli_Jerry89 said:Can some one please explain to me why charged particles attract neutral ones...
Usually a charged particle will not atract or repel a neutral one electrically. If you've been told they do, you have been misinformed. Your deduction from the equation is correct for particles.I read somewhere that protons and electrons do not have any effect on the neutrons.
Note that these spheres are objects composed of gazillions of charged particles. Yes, you will get charge separation/polarization. Note that this brings the +charges in the uncharged sphere closer to the charged sphere than the -charges--thus you get an attractive force. How much charge separation depends on the nature of the objects: in a conductor, electrons are free to move; in an insulator, they are bound to the nucleus, but can move somewhat, depending upon the polarizability of the material.Fusilli_Jerry89 said:k, say you bring two speres (1 charged, one not) close together. Wouldn't the charged object(-) push the electrons to the other end of the sphere, thus making the side of it charged positively, would they then attracts to the charged object? ISn't there a force there? How would you calculate it?
You get the same thing, only in reverse. Now the electrons in the uncharged sphere move towards the charged sphere, leading to a similar attractive force.Also, if you brought a positive(+) charged object near the neutral one instead of negative, would the attraction be weaker, due to the prontons not being able to move, thus adding some positive charge to the same side, some cancelling negative charges from the electrons?