Question

An electric field with an average magnitude of about 175 N/C points downward in the atmosphere near Earth's surface. We wish to "float" a sulfur sphere weighing 7.4 N in this field by charging the sphere. What charge (both sign and magnitude) must be used?

Answer 1

q = 42.3 x 10⁻³ C = 42.3 mC

Step-by-step explanation:

in order for the Sulphur charge to float the weight of the charge must be equal to the electric force:

`Electric\ Force = Weight\ of \ Sulphur\ Charge\\\\Eq = W\\\\q = (W)/(E)`

where,

q = charge required = ?

W = Weight = 7.4 N

E = Electric Field Strength = 175 N/C

Therefore,

`q = (7.4\ N)/(175\ N/C)`

q = 42.3 x 10⁻³ C = 42.3 mC