The process of the method of images

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the method of images in electrostatics, specifically concerning the grounding of an infinite conducting plane and its interaction with a nearby positive charge. Participants explore the implications of grounding the plane before or after placing the charge, as well as the resulting charge distribution on the plane.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about whether the conducting plane is grounded before or after placing the positive charge, suggesting that this order may affect the outcome.
  • Another participant asserts that regardless of the grounding sequence, the plane will still exhibit induced negative charges due to the presence of the positive charge.
  • There is a mention of electrostatic shielding as a concept related to the method of images, with a suggestion to explore this further.
  • A later reply encourages experimentation with a gold leaf electroscope to observe the effects directly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the implications of grounding order, as differing views on the charge distribution remain evident.

Contextual Notes

Unresolved assumptions include the specifics of charge behavior upon grounding and the precise nature of induced charges in different scenarios.

ta66505477
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I am really confused that the whole process of the method of image.

Suppose I have the + q near the infinite conducting plane which is grounded.
My first question is: Is the conducting plane grounded before putting the +q or after putting the +q then grounded?

The first question would lead to my second question.

If I have an infinite neutral plane, then I am putting a +q near it, it will induce the negative charge on the plane. Next, I grounded the plane, so the positive charges on the plane will be neutralized (All the positive charges flowing away). After that, what you remain is the induced negative charges on the plane.

In another case, I am going to ground the infinite neutral plane first, then put the positive charge near the plane. Can the plane also be induced negative charges? If yes, will the +charges flow away?
 
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No matter you ground it first or later, I think the plane would both remain negative charges, which is induced by +q.
The method of the image can be grabbed directly by the concept of electrostatic shielding. Maybe you can try on it.
 
tommyxu3 said:
No matter you ground it first or later, I think the plane would both remain negative charges, which is induced by +q.
The method of the image can be grabbed directly by the concept of electrostatic shielding. Maybe you can try on it.
If you could find a gold leave electroscope you could try these experiments very easily.
 
Thank you!
I am going to find this electroscope.
 

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