Question

A metallic object is given a positive charge by the process of induction, as illustrated in Figure 18.8. (a) Does the mass of the object increase, decrease, or remain the same? Why? (b) What happens to the mass of the object if it is given a negative charge by induction? Explain.

Answer 1

a. In the process of induction, metal objects are positive because electrons are pushed out of the object to the earth. The mass of the object decreases by an amount equal to the mass of the electrons leaving the metal object.

b. During the induction process, electrons are drawn from the earth to the object, so that the metal object becomes negative. The mass of the object increases by an amount equal to the mass of "excess" electrons dragged onto the object.