Solve -3C, 8C, 4C Electrostatics Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves three small identical balls with charges of -3C, 8C, and 4C that are brought into contact and then separated. The discussion centers on understanding how the charges redistribute and what the resulting charges on each ball will be after separation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the rationale behind dividing the total charge by three, questioning whether the total charge should simply be added instead. There is also a discussion about whether the balls would retain their initial charges after being separated.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding charge redistribution and the concept of memory in electrostatics. There appears to be a productive exchange of ideas, although no consensus has been reached on the final outcome.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the implications of charge redistribution and the assumptions about the behavior of identical charged objects when brought into contact.

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Homework Statement



three small identical balls have charges -3C,8C and 4C respectively. they are brought in contact and separated. calculate charge on each ball?

Homework Equations



q=(q1+q2+q3)/3

The Attempt at a Solution


what is the need for dividing by 3. why not simply add the charges q1+q2+q3
 
Last edited:
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logearav said:
what is the need for dividing by 3. why not simply add the charges q1+q2+q3
That would give you the total charge, not the charge per ball.
 
sir, it has already been mentioned about the charge possessed by each individual ball. When they come in contact some redistribution of charge occurs. if they are separated won't they get their initial charges?
 
logearav said:
if they are separated won't they get their initial charges?
No, why would they? They retain no "memory" of their initial charges.

Here's an example that might make it clear. Imagine two identical balls, with charges of +5 and -5 units. When brought together the charge redistributes, adding to zero. There's no longer a charge on the balls, they are neutral. If you had two uncharged balls together, would you expect them to gain a charge as they are separated?
 
Thanks sir. i understood now
 

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