Moderate

The metallic spheres A and B of radii 2m and 4m respectively carry the same charge 4 x 10^8C. If the spheres are connected by a copper wire than :

Correct answer: A. The charge will flow from A to B

  • A. The charge will flow from A to B
  • B. The charge will flow from B to A
  • C. No flow of charge will occur
  • D. Both A and B are possible

Explanation

Option A is correct. When metallic spheres A and B, with radii 2m and 4m respectively, carry the same charge and are connected by a copper wire, the charge flows from A to B. Sphere A, having a smaller radius, exhibits a higher surface charge density. This creates a stronger electric field on the surface of sphere A compared to sphere B. The charge will flow from the area of higher electric field (sphere A) to lower (sphere B) until the surface charge densities are equal, resulting in no net electric field and charge flow ceases.Option B is incorrect because the charge cannot flow from B to A due to the lower surface charge density of sphere B. Option C is incorrect as the unequal surface charge densities will cause a potential difference, leading to charge transfer. Option D is incorrect because the direction of charge flow is singularly determined from A to B.

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