How Does Charging by Induction Work with a Positive Object?

[jgens]

Homework Statement

Describe the steps in charging a single object by induction (using grounding) if the charging object is positive.

Homework Equations

N/A

The Attempt at a Solution

We've had to do explanations similar to this before during class; however, never with a positively charged object. Would someone mind checking to make sure I've got the steps right? Thanks.

Place the positively charged object near the neutral object but ensure that they do not touch. Ground the neutral object by placing a finger on the positive side (side opposite the charging object); this will allow electrons to flow from the ground into the neutral object. Remove you finger from the object and then remove the charging object. The "neutral" object has now been negatively charged by induction.

 

[Feldoh]

Looks good.

 

[nlightner]

Your steps are correct. By bringing a positively charged object near a neutral object and grounding the neutral object, the electrons from the ground will be attracted to the positive charge on the charging object. When the charging object is removed, the neutral object will be left with a net negative charge due to the excess electrons that were transferred from the ground. This is known as charging by induction and is an effective way to charge objects without direct contact.