PHYSICS · Single correct · CBSE · Physics · Current Electricity · Current Electricity
Problem
Two identical metal spheres, each initially carrying a net charge of +5μC, are separately neutralized by connecting them to ground.
• Sphere X is connected with a 2m length of thick copper wire.
• Sphere Y is connected with a 2m length of nylon fishing line that has been soaked in salt water to make it slightly conductive.
Which statement correctly compares the time required for the two spheres to become neutral once their respective grounding connections are made?
(a) Sphere X neutralizes more slowly because a lower resistance means a smaller potential difference to drive the discharge current.
(b) Sphere X neutralizes more quickly because electrons can flow more easily through the low-resistance copper wire.
(c) Both spheres neutralize in the same time because the identical amount of charge must be moved in each case.
(d) Sphere Y neutralizes more quickly because the mobile ions in the salt solution can transport charge in two directions at once.