A honey bee (mass 0.10 g) acquires an electric charge when it flies. Therefore,

Question

A honey bee (mass   0.10   g)   acquires   an   electric   charge   when   it   flies.   Therefore,   it   experiences   a  
force   due   to   Earth’s   electric   field   (100   N/C   downwards).   Could   a   bee   levitate   in   Earth’s   electric   field?  
a) Would   the   bee   need   to   have   a   positive   or   a   negative   charge   in   order   to   levitate?  
b) How   much   charge   would   the   bee   need   to   have   in   order   to   levitate?  
c) Does   it   seem   possible   for   this   to   happen?   Use   your   previous   results   as   arguments.   

Explanation / Answer

the condition for levitation is that Downward force = Upward force

weight of the bee = electric force on bee

yes the bee levitate in Earth's electric field

a) to get upward electric force,the bee should have negative charge

b) m*g = E*q

charge q = m*g/E = (0.1*9.81*10^-3)/(100) = 9.81*10^-6 C

c) Yes it is possible,by having a negative charge on bee

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