What is the difference between induction and polarization?

[IKonquer]

I've heard both words used a lot and am having difficulty understanding the two. Is there a difference between them?

Thanks in advance

 

[pgardn]

I've heard both words used a lot and am having difficulty understanding the two. Is there a difference between them?

Thanks in advance

Well you induce polarization to occur. If for example, you take an insulating material, and you bring a positive charge close, the electrons will "gather" closer to the positive charge. So you have induced momentary polarization (separation of charge). The same can be done with a conducting material and can actually be used to separate charge on a more permanent basis. The type of material you are inducing polarization to occur in can produce some interesting desired effects that are used in a number of different types of devices. Copiers, on and on...

 

[IKonquer]

I think I am seeing how you can separate the charges through polarization. But let's say you rub electrons from your hair with a comb. Why does the comb become negatively charged? I don't think I understand this idea of transfer of charge.

 

[gomunkul51]

Do you mean Polarization (is the state) of the charge (inside a material) that is caused by Electrostatic Induction?

read this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrostatic_induction

 

[IKonquer]

So is induction when a neutral object becomes charged and polarization just the separation of charge? Also I don't see how a comb can just pick up negative charge in my previous post.

 

[gomunkul51]

So is induction when a neutral object becomes charged...

Please READ the wiki link I posted :)
this is not what is written there !

You can add any charge (+/-, size) to objects that have any other charge (+/-, size) no law against it (practically). but also you can affect the distribution of charge inside an object by electromagnetic fields (without taking or giving any new charge) !

 

[Denys.Ca]

Induction - action taken; Polarization = results.
Right?