Why is Sphere B Negatively Charged? Physics Explanation

In summary, Sphere B becomes negatively charged after being briefly touched with a wire that is grounded because of the process of induction. This allows the positive charges from Sphere A to attract negative charges from the ground onto Sphere B, resulting in a separation of charges and a negative charge on Sphere B. This process is known as grounding or induction.
  • #1
Soaring Crane
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Sphere A carries a net positive charge, and sphere B is neutral. They are placed near each other on an insulated table. Sphere B is briefly touched with a wire that is grounded. Why is Sphere B now negatively charged? I mean, why isn't it positively charged (which I though was the answer) or neutral? Is it the flow of electrons from A to B?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
There is no way for charge to flow off sphere A. Grounding sphere B just allows charge to flow onto it from some unlimited source (the earth) until it is at 0 volts. In this case, the positive sphere pulls negative charge up from the ground onto sphere B.
 
  • #3
Solution

Dear friend,
When we say that B is nuetral,it means that there are equal amount of +ve & -ve charge in B. When the sphere B is grounded,the +ve charge in A attracts the -ve charges to that side.The +ve charges and -ve charges are seperated.+ve charges will flow to ground making B a -vely charged body.This phenomenon is called Induction.
 

1. Why do objects have different charges?

Objects have different charges because of the presence or absence of subatomic particles called electrons. Electrons, which have a negative charge, can be transferred between objects through various processes such as friction or contact. If an object gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged, and if it loses electrons, it becomes positively charged.

2. How does the charge on an object affect its interactions with other objects?

The charge on an object determines the strength and direction of the electrical force it experiences when interacting with other charged objects. Objects with opposite charges are attracted to each other, while objects with the same charge repel each other.

3. What causes an object to become negatively charged?

An object becomes negatively charged when it gains electrons from another object. This can happen through processes such as friction, where electrons are transferred from one object to another, or through contact with another object that has a different charge.

4. How does the charge on an object affect its physical properties?

The charge on an object does not directly affect its physical properties, but it can indirectly affect them through the electrical force it experiences from other charged objects. For example, the charge on an object can affect its ability to attract or repel other objects, which can change its position or motion.

5. Can the charge on an object change over time?

Yes, the charge on an object can change over time. This can happen through processes such as friction, where electrons are transferred between objects, or through exposure to external sources of charge, such as static electricity. Additionally, the charge on an object can change if it is connected to a conductive material that allows electrons to flow in or out of the object.

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