Question Detail

PHY 102 ELECTROSTATICS Objective Question

Question

In the process of charging by induction, after a charged object is brought near a neutral conductor and the conductor is momentarily earthed, what type of charge does the conductor acquire?
Options
A The same type of charge as the inducing charged object.
B An opposite type of charge to the inducing charged object.
Correct Answer
C It remains neutral, but polarized.
D It acquires both positive and negative charges randomly.
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

The text explains: 'If A had been a negatively charged sphere, B would have acquired a positive charge.' and 'In the case of charging by induction, B has an unlike charge.' Earthing allows excess charges to flow to/from the earth, leaving the conductor with a net charge opposite to the inducing charge.

Hint

Think about how earthing interacts with the polarization caused by the inducing charge.

Question Info