How to find charge of sphere?

In summary, a homework question asks for the charge of a larger conducting sphere connected to a smaller one by a thin wire in electrostatic equilibrium. The smaller sphere has a diameter of 2.0 cm and a charge of 3.0 nC. Using the formula for potential at the surface of a charged conducting sphere, the charge of the larger sphere is found to be 13.5 nC. The validity of this approach should be verified.
  • #1
conov3
34
0

Homework Statement



Two conducting spheres are connected by a thin wire and are in electrostatic equilibrium. The diameter of the smaller sphere is 2.0 cm and the diameter of the larger one is 9.0 cm. If the smaller sphere is found to be charged to 3.0 nC, what is the charge of the larger sphere?

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



2/3=9/x
x=13.5nC? Am i able to use this rule to find the charge
 
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  • #2
conov3 said:

Homework Statement



Two conducting spheres are connected by a thin wire and are in electrostatic equilibrium. The diameter of the smaller sphere is 2.0 cm and the diameter of the larger one is 9.0 cm. If the smaller sphere is found to be charged to 3.0 nC, what is the charge of the larger sphere?

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



2/3=9/x
x=13.5nC? Am i able to use this rule to find the charge

Your result is correct.

You should verify that your 'rule' is valid. What is the formula for the potential at the surface of a charged conducting sphere?
 

1. How do you determine the charge of a sphere?

The charge of a sphere can be determined by calculating the electric field at the surface of the sphere and multiplying it by the surface area of the sphere.

2. What is the equation for finding the charge of a sphere?

The equation for finding the charge of a sphere is Q = 4πε0r2E, where Q is the charge, ε0 is the permittivity of free space, r is the radius of the sphere, and E is the electric field at the surface of the sphere.

3. Can the charge of a sphere be negative?

Yes, the charge of a sphere can be negative. This means that the sphere has an excess of electrons, giving it a negative charge.

4. How does the charge of a sphere affect its electric field?

The charge of a sphere directly affects the strength of its electric field. A greater charge will result in a stronger electric field, while a smaller charge will result in a weaker electric field.

5. Can the charge of a sphere change?

Yes, the charge of a sphere can change. This can occur through the transfer of electrons, also known as charge transport, or through the application of an external electric field.

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