A hollow metal sphere carries a charge of 6.0 μC. An identical sphere carries a charge of 18.0 μ

step 1 In this problem, let capital Q be the charge on each sphere after the equilibrium is reached. So

A hollow metal sphere carries a charge of 6.0 μC. An...

A hollow metal sphere carries a charge of $6.0 \mu \mathrm{C}$. An identical sphere carries a charge of $18.0 \mu$ C. The two spheres are brought into contact with each other, then separated. How much charge is on each?

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Key Concepts

Charge Conservation

This concept states that the total electric charge in an isolated system remains constant over time. When two conductors are brought into contact, the sum of the charges before contact will equal the sum of the charges after redistribution. This principle is essential for solving problems where charges are transferred between objects.

Electrostatic Equilibrium

In conductors, charges are free to move and will do so until the electric potential is uniform throughout the conductor. When two conductors are connected, they will share charge until they reach the same electric potential, ensuring no further net movement of charge between them.

Uniform Charge Distribution in Identical Conductors

For identical conductors, the symmetry of the objects means that when charge is allowed to flow between them, it will distribute equally. This is because the final equilibrium state is achieved when each conductor has the same potential, leading to an equal share of the total charge when their sizes and shapes are alike.

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