Question

The earth has a net electric charge that causes a field at points near its surface equal to 150 N/C and directed in toward the center of the earth.The earth has a net electric charge that causes a field at points near its surface equal to 150 N/C and directed in toward the center of the earth.

Answer 1

The charge is -4.05 C.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that,

Electric field = 150 N/C

Suppose What charge would a human with a mass of 62.0 kg have to acquire to overcome his or her weight by the force exerted by the earth's electric field?

We need to calculate the charge

Using formula of electric field

`E=(kQ)/(r^2)`

`Q=(Er^2)/(k)`

Where, Q=charge

r = distance center of the earth

Put the value into the formula

`Q=(150*(6.38*10^(6))^2)/(9*10^(9))`

`Q=6.78*10^(5)\ C`

The electric field is directed in toward the center of the earth.

So, the charge is negative.

We need to calculate the charge

Using formula of electric force

`F=(kQq)/(r^2)`

`mg=(kQq)/(r^2)`

Put the value into the formula

`62.0*9.8=(9*10^(9)* q*(-6.78*10^(5)))/((6.38*10^(6))^2)`

`q=(62.0*9.8*(6.38*10^(6))^2)/(9*10^(9)*(-6.78*10^(5)))`

`q=-4.05\ C`

Hence, The charge is -4.05 C.