PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Electric Charges and Fields · Electric Charges and Fields
Problem
Two identical small conducting spheres P and Q, each of mass 5 g, are suspended from the same fixed point by light silk threads 50 cm long. Because of electrostatic forces the spheres come to rest with their centres 4.0 cm apart.
(i) Identify whether the charges on P and Q are like or unlike. Give reason.
(ii) If the charge on sphere Q could be reversed in sign while keeping its magnitude the same, predict qualitatively how the separation between the spheres would change after equilibrium is re-established.
(iii) Explain your prediction in part (ii) with reference to the nature and line-of-action of the forces acting on each sphere.