PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance · Electrostatic Potential and Capacitance
Problem
Two identical, isolated conducting spheres—Sphere A and Sphere B—are in contact with each other on an insulating stand. Both spheres are initially electrically neutral. A positively charged rod is then brought near Sphere A but never touches either sphere.
(a) While the charged rod is in place and the spheres remain in contact, describe the distribution of charge on each sphere. Include the sign of any induced charges and their approximate locations.
(b) After the rod is removed, the spheres are still touching. Describe the new charge distribution and state the net charge on each sphere, explaining your reasoning.
(c) Instead, suppose that while the rod is near Sphere A (as in part a), the spheres are carefully separated from each other without touching the rod. The rod is then removed far away. State the final net charge on each sphere and explain thoroughly.
(d) For the situation in part (c), determine the direction of the net electrostatic force between the separated spheres once the rod is gone. Provide a justification based on the charges you identified.