5.2.9 Represent and reason The figure on the right shows the instant when a holl

Question

5.2.9 Represent and reason The figure on the right shows the instant when a hollow metal box is placed in a uniform lectric field (its effect on the external field is not shown). a. Indicate the electric charge distribution in the metal due to the external electric field. Note: If electrons move from one part of the box to another, the part with a deficiency of negatively charged electrons is now positively charged, and the part with an excess of electrons is negatively charged b. Draw electric field lines caused by this induced-charge distribution on the surface of the box and discuss the magnitude of the total E field inside the box. c. Discuss how your reasoning in parts a and b helps explain why it is safe to sit in a car during a lightning storm d. Draw the new shape of the field lines outside the box. How does the redistribution of electrons inside the box affect the electric field outside?

Explanation / Answer

a)We know that the electric field lines are directed towards a negative charge. So in the right there has to be negative charges for producing the field shown in figure. So a positive charge will be induced in the right side of the boz and negative in the left.

b)Drawing attached

Since its a metal box, the field inside is zero as the net enclosed charge within the conductor is zero.

c)Because the electric field inside the car/metal box/conductor is zero.

When the lightening strikes, the excess charge gets grounded and saves from getting a electric shock.

d)Drawing attached.

The field will still be pointing in the same direction as above, except there will be a little deflections due to a charge on the surface of the box.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse 5
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.