Question Detail

PHY 102 ELECTROSTATICS Objective Question

Question

A spherical surface encloses 4 charges: +2 µC, +4 µC, -3 µC, and -5 µC. What is the electric flux out of the surface?
Options
A -2 µC / ε₀ Vm
Correct Answer
B +2 µC / ε₀ Vm
C -12 µC / ε₀ Vm
D +14 µC / ε₀ Vm
Correct Answer

Option A is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

According to Gauss's Law (page 13), the electric flux (ψ) is equal to the net enclosed charge divided by the permittivity of free space (ε₀). The net charge is (2 + 4 - 3 - 5) µC = -2 µC. So, ψ = -2 µC / ε₀ Vm.

Hint

Remember to sum all enclosed charges algebraically.

Question Info