Physics

Problem

Two identical conducting spheres

A

and

B

are kept far apart. Sphere

A

carries a charge of

+6\,\mu\mathrm C

and sphere

B

carries a charge of

-2\,\mu\mathrm C

. They are connected by a thin conducting wire and then separated again. What will be the charge on each sphere after separation? a)

+4\,\mu\text C

on each b)

+2\,\mu\text C

on each c) Zero on each d)

+3\,\mu\text C

A

and

+1\,\mu\text C

B

Intuitive explanation

When two identical conductors touch or connect, charge redistributes until they reach the same electric potential. Since they're identical spheres, this means the total charge spreads equally between them—think of it like pouring water into two identical cups: it settles at the same level in each. Calculate the total charge first, then split it evenly to find what each sphere ends up with.

Intuitive explanation

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