Multiple-choice question, Electric field and potential

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between the charges on two positively charged metal spheres connected by a conducting wire. According to the established solution, the ratio of the charges q1 and q2 on spheres A and B is given by q1:q2 = a:b, where a and b are the radii of spheres A and B, respectively. This conclusion is derived from the principle that the potentials of both spheres must equalize when connected by a conducting wire, as expressed by the equation V=q/(4∏εr). The discussion also explores the implications of disconnecting and reconnecting the wire while altering the charges on the spheres.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and charge distribution
  • Familiarity with the concept of conducting wires in electrostatics
  • Knowledge of the equation for electric potential V=q/(4∏εr)
  • Basic principles of electrostatics and charge conservation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of electrostatics and charge distribution in conductors
  • Learn about the effects of connecting and disconnecting conductors in electrostatic systems
  • Explore the implications of potential difference in charged systems
  • Investigate the behavior of electric fields around charged spheres
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding electrostatics, particularly the behavior of charged conductors and the principles governing electric potential and charge distribution.

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A positively-charged metal sphere A of reaius a is jointed by a long conducting wire to another positively charged metal sphere B of radius b. Assume that B is far away from A. If the charges on A and B are respectively q1 and q2, what is the ratio q1:q2?

Relevant equations
V=q/(4∏εr)

a) a^2:b^2
b) a:b
c) b^2:a^2
d) b:a

Solution:
The conducting wire ensures that the potentials of the two spheres are the same. Since they are far apart, the charge of any sphere will not influence the potential of one another.
V(sphere a)=V(sphere b)
q1/(4∏εa) = q2/(4∏εb)
∴ q1/q2=a/b
This is the solution from the book.
Why the potentials of the two sphere are the same when they joined by a conducting wire?
 
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Suppose you

- Cut the wire somewhere between the spheres,
- Put a charge on the spheres such that two spheres have different potentials, and
- Reattach the cut ends of the wire.

What flows down the wire?
 
The charges in the sphere?
 

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