Question

An isolated conducting sphere of radius b = 6 × 10 ⁶ (meters) exists in an otherwise empty universe.

Assume that a charge of 0.6 Coulombs is deposited on and spreads uniformly over the surface of the conducting sphere. What is the magnitude of the force acting on the conducting sphere? Type your answer in micro-Newtons to one place after the decimal.

Answer 1

The magnitude of the force acting on an isolated conducting sphere with uniform charge distribution is 0 micro-Newtons because there are no external forces acting on it in an otherwise empty universe.

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnitude of force acting on an isolated conducting sphere with a charge spread uniformly over its surface is of interest here. Since the sphere is alone in an otherwise empty universe, it is not subject to external electric fields nor forces from other charges. Consequently, the electric forces that arise due to its own charge distribution are internal and result in no net force on the sphere itself. The electric field outside the charged sphere can be determined using Coulomb's Law and the concept of electric potential, but it is important to note that the force on the sphere as a whole, due to its own charge, is zero. Therefore, the magnitude of the force acting on the conducting sphere in question is 0 micro-Newtons.