Electrically Neutral Object: Does Adding Positive Charge Affect Mass?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of mass in relation to electric charge, specifically whether adding a net positive charge to an electrically neutral object affects its mass. The subject area includes concepts from electromagnetism and atomic structure.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express differing views on whether the mass of an object changes when it acquires a positive charge. Questions are raised about the nature of charged particles in atoms and the implications of adding or removing particles to achieve a positive charge.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various interpretations of the question. Some guidance is provided regarding the types of particles involved, but no consensus has been reached regarding the effect on mass.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the ambiguity in the original question, with some participants suggesting that the answer could vary based on the context of how charge is achieved. The discussion also hints at the complexity of atomic structure and the role of different particles.

unseenoi
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Homework Statement


Consider an electrically neutral object. If this object is given a net positive charge does its mass increase, decrease or remain the same?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


i say that the mass decrease. but i don't know why, can someone please explain it to me
 
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unseenoi said:
i say that the mass decrease. but i don't know why,
Then you can't really say that then can you?

What positive and negative charged particles are there in an atom, which ones can be easily added/removed. To get a positive charge would you have to add or remove particles?
 
You would have to Add particles.
 
No.
Try answering each of the questions in the previous post
 
It's a poorly-worded question because, in fact, the answer can be either increase OR decrease, but since I think adding hydrogen nucleii is probably not what the question is asking about, I think post #2 has the intent of the question correct.
 

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