A neutral aluminum can is placed on a low-friction surface
PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Electric Force Field and Potential · Electric Force Field and Potential
Problem
A neutral aluminum can is placed on a low-friction surface. A negatively charged plastic rod is brought near, without touching, the open end of the can. The can rolls toward the rod. Which of the following best explains this motion?
(a) The negative rod transfers electrons to the can, giving the entire can a net negative charge that is then pulled toward the rod.
(b) Protons in the can move toward the rod, making the near side positively charged, and opposite charges attract.
(c) Electrons in the can are repelled, leaving the near side positively charged, and the resulting opposite charges attract.
(d) Electrons in the can are attracted toward the rod, making the near side negatively charged, and like charges attract.