Move or attract large/heavy materials using polarisation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the theoretical possibility of moving or attracting large or heavy materials using polarization. A charged rod can polarize lightweight materials, such as paper, enabling them to be lifted if the force is sufficient. However, applying this principle to larger objects, like rocks, is impractical due to the immense charge required, which would surpass the breakdown voltage of air, resulting in arcing and neutralization of the rod's charge. Thus, while polarization can work on small materials, it is not feasible for larger ones.

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Moustachio
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I was just wondering if it was possible theoretically to move or attract large/heavy materials using polarisation.

For example I've heard examples that if you have a charged rod ,and you bring it
close enough to pieces of paper the charge on the rod will polarise the paper and then if that
force between the rod and the polarised paper is large enough you can pick up the piece of paper. So is this possible with basically any material eg. like a rock or something if you have a "big" enough charged rod ?
 
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I don't think so. The problem with large objects is that they would require so much charge on the rod that it would exceed the breakdown voltage of the air or whatever was holding the rod and it would arc, neutralizing the charge on the rod. I'm not sure if the size of the rod or something else would make a difference or not, so I can't say for sure.
 

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