Transfer Of Charge
Key Notes :
What is a Charge?
- Charge is a fundamental property of matter that can be positive or negative.
- Objects can become charged when electrons are transferred between them.
- Charging by Friction:
- Charging by friction occurs when two objects rub against each other, and electrons are transferred from one object to the other.
- The object that gains electrons becomes negatively charged, and the one losing electrons becomes positively charged.
- Charging by Conduction:
- Charging by conduction happens when a charged object comes into direct contact with a neutral (uncharged) object.
- Electrons flow from the charged object to the neutral object, equalizing their charges.
- Charging by Induction:
- Charging by induction occurs when a charged object is brought near, but not in contact with, a neutral object.
- Electrons in the neutral object are temporarily redistributed, creating a temporary charge separation.
- Law of Conservation of Charge:
- The total charge in a closed system remains constant. Charge cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred from one object to another.
- Static Electricity:
- Static electricity is the buildup of charge on the surface of an object.
- It can lead to phenomena like sparks, lightning, and the attraction/repulsion of objects.
- Static Discharge:
- Static discharge occurs when the excess charge on an object is released, often in the form of a spark or a sudden movement.
- Electroscope:
- An electroscope is a device that can detect the presence of an electric charge.
- It consists of a metal rod with a pair of leaves at the bottom that repel each other when charged.
- Lightning:
- Lightning is a natural discharge of static electricity in the atmosphere.
- It is caused by the buildup of charges in clouds and the discharge of these charges to the ground or between clouds.
- Applications of Transfer of Charge:
- Charging of batteries in electronic devices.
- Operation of photocopiers, laser printers, and inkjet printers.
- Working of Van de Graaff generators in science experiments.
- Safety Precautions:
- Avoid touching electrical appliances when wet.
- Do not use damaged electrical cords.
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms to avoid lightning strikes.
Let’s practice!
