When a positive point charge is brought near a neutral metallic sphere, it induces a fascinating phenomenon known as electrostatic induction. Let's break down what happens in this scenario and clarify the outcomes.
Understanding Electrostatic Induction
Electrostatic induction occurs when a charged object influences the distribution of charges within a neutral conductor without direct contact. In this case, the positive point charge creates an electric field that affects the free electrons in the metallic sphere.
What Happens to the Sphere?
As the positive charge approaches the metallic sphere, the free electrons in the metal are attracted toward the side of the sphere closest to the positive charge. This movement of electrons results in the following:
- Negative Charge Accumulation: The side of the sphere nearest to the positive charge becomes negatively charged due to the accumulation of electrons.
- Positive Charge on the Opposite Side: The side of the sphere farthest from the positive charge loses some electrons, resulting in a slight positive charge on that side.
Charge Distribution and Interior Neutrality
Despite the separation of charges on the surface, the overall charge of the sphere remains neutral. The interior of the sphere does not gain any net charge because the positive and negative charges balance each other out. Thus, the interior remains neutral while the surface exhibits a non-uniform charge distribution.
Analyzing the Options
Now, let’s evaluate the options provided in your question:
- (a) Sphere becomes negatively charged: This is incorrect. The sphere as a whole remains neutral.
- (b) Sphere becomes positively charged: This is also incorrect for the same reason; the sphere does not gain a net charge.
- (c) Interior remains neutral and surface gets non-uniform charge distribution: This is the correct answer. The interior stays neutral, while the surface charge distribution is uneven due to the influence of the nearby positive charge.
- (d) Interior becomes positively charged and surface becomes negatively charged: This is incorrect. The interior does not gain a net charge, and the surface charge distribution is not uniform.
Conclusion
In summary, when a positive point charge is brought near a neutral metallic sphere, the sphere's surface experiences a non-uniform charge distribution due to the movement of electrons, while the interior remains neutral. This phenomenon illustrates the principles of electrostatic induction and the behavior of conductors in electric fields.
