Final answer:
Voltages over 400V can harm electronic components like hard drives, and while not provided as an option, this would signify that both choice A (1,500V) and D (4,000V) could cause data destruction. Charge of -2.00 nC requires roughly 1.25 x 1010 electrons; a 0.500 µC charge requires removing about 3.12 x 1012 electrons.
Step-by-step explanation:
The destruction of data on hard drives due to static electricity can occur at various voltage levels, but it is commonly accepted that voltages above 400 volts can be harmful to electronic components. Most modern hard drives are shielded to protect against static discharge; however, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) as low as 30 volts can sometimes damage sensitive electronic components. Given the choices provided: A. 1,500V, B. 17,000V, C. 40V, and D. 4,000V, the risk of damage increases significantly with higher voltages. Therefore, while not specified in the options, any voltage level above 400V, such as choice A or D could potentially cause destruction would be considered dangerous. Static electricity is inconsistent, and its effects can vary based on multiple factors including humidity, surface material, and the design and construction of the hard drive itself.
Answering the theoretical questions provided about static charges and electrons: (a) to form a charge of -2.00 nC, you would need approximately 1.25 x 1010 electrons, since one electron carries approximately -1.60 x 10-19 coulombs of charge. (b) To leave a net charge of 0.500 µC, you'd need to remove approximately 3.12 x 1012 electrons from a neutral object.