Solve -3C, 8C, 4C Electrostatics Problem

  • Thread starter Thread starter logearav
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Electrostatics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The problem involves three small identical balls with charges of -3C, 8C, and 4C. When these balls are brought into contact, the total charge is calculated using the formula q = (q1 + q2 + q3) / 3, resulting in a charge of approximately 3C on each ball after redistribution. This charge redistribution occurs because the balls do not retain memory of their initial charges once they are separated. The discussion clarifies that the initial charges do not return after separation, as the balls become neutralized during contact.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with the concept of charge neutrality
  • Basic knowledge of algebraic manipulation
  • Concept of identical objects in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of charge conservation in electrostatics
  • Learn about the effects of charge redistribution in conductive materials
  • Explore examples of electrostatic interactions between multiple charged bodies
  • Investigate the implications of charge neutrality in practical applications
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrostatics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding charge interactions and redistribution in conductive materials.

logearav
Messages
329
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



three small identical balls have charges -3C,8C and 4C respectively. they are brought in contact and separated. calculate charge on each ball?

Homework Equations



q=(q1+q2+q3)/3

The Attempt at a Solution


what is the need for dividing by 3. why not simply add the charges q1+q2+q3
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
logearav said:
what is the need for dividing by 3. why not simply add the charges q1+q2+q3
That would give you the total charge, not the charge per ball.
 
sir, it has already been mentioned about the charge possessed by each individual ball. When they come in contact some redistribution of charge occurs. if they are separated won't they get their initial charges?
 
logearav said:
if they are separated won't they get their initial charges?
No, why would they? They retain no "memory" of their initial charges.

Here's an example that might make it clear. Imagine two identical balls, with charges of +5 and -5 units. When brought together the charge redistributes, adding to zero. There's no longer a charge on the balls, they are neutral. If you had two uncharged balls together, would you expect them to gain a charge as they are separated?
 
Thanks sir. i understood now
 

Similar threads

Graduate Understanding Electrical Potential Energy of a charge distribution
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Finding electric field intensity
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Superposition principle and charges from infinity
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Electrostatics (four equal point charges)
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Calculate the total force on Q1
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Solving the Charged Particles Homework Statement
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Electric field in electrostatic situation
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Finding magnitude of electrostatic force
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Neutral Point between point charges
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
5K
What Is the Capacitance of Three Concentric Spherical Shells?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K