Force between Two Charges with a Metal Sheet in Between: Decrease or Increase?

In summary, the question asks what will happen to the force between two charges in air when a metal sheet is introduced between them. The suggested options are whether the force will decrease, increase, or become zero, and the question asks for an explanation. The answer given in books is that the force decreases, but the explanation is not provided. It is suggested that the force will not be affected since the introduction of the metal sheet does not change the charges or distance between them. However, if the metal sheet is thick, it may become polarized and the force may decrease, but it is still present in the metal itself. Further discussion on this topic is encouraged.
  • #1
ananthu
106
1

Homework Statement


When a metal sheet is introduced in between two charges placed in air what will happen to the force between them? Will it decrease, or, increase, or, become zero? What will be the explanation? kindly reply.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Why has no one replied to my question? Had I asked any thing so trivial in nature or so tough to answer? I eagerly wait for the expert opinions on the subject from the forum-friends.
 
  • #3
I'm definitely no expert, but my guess is that there is no effect on the force. By introducing the metal sheet, you neither add nor take away any of the charges. Nor do you increase/decrease their distance from each other.

The metal sheet if its thick may become polarized in which case the force you observe in may decrease, but it has not been taken away since it now is present in the metal itself.

Hope that helps.
 
  • #4
Thank you for your reply. But the answer given for this question in books is "the force decreases". Only the explanation for "why it decreases" is not given. Hope this will initiate further discussion on this topic.
 

1. What is the formula for the force between two charges?

The formula for the force between two charges is given by Coulomb's Law: F = k * (q1 * q2) / r2, where F is the force, k is the Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the charges, and r is the distance between the two charges.

2. How does the distance between two charges affect the force between them?

The force between two charges is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This means that as the distance increases, the force decreases and vice versa.

3. What is the direction of the force between two charges?

The direction of the force between two charges depends on the nature of the charges. If the charges are of the same type (both positive or both negative), the force will be repulsive and in the opposite direction. If the charges are of different types (one positive and one negative), the force will be attractive and in the direction of the line connecting the two charges.

4. How do multiple charges affect the force between two charges?

If there are multiple charges present, the force between two charges will be affected by the other charges as well. The net force will be the vector sum of all the individual forces between each pair of charges.

5. Can the force between two charges be zero?

Yes, the force between two charges can be zero if the charges are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign. This is known as an electrically neutral system.

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