if you had two ping pong balls (or golf balls, or tennis balls), both carrying the maximum
possible positive electrical charge, and you also had insulating gloves that allowed you to pick
them up without being shocked, would you be strong enough to make the charged balls touch
each other?
In this scenario, let's assume that the electrostatic repulsion between the positively charged balls is stronger than the force you can exert to push them together. However, there is a way to overcome this and make the charged balls touch each other.
Here's what you can do:
1. Place one of the balls on a non-conductive surface, such as a plastic table or insulating material. This will keep it stable while you work with the other one.
2. With your insulating gloves on, gently pick up the second ball. Be careful not to touch any part of your body or any conducting surface with the ball.
3. Slowly move the second ball towards the first ball, keeping them at a reasonable distance apart. As you get closer, you will notice an increase in the repulsion force between the balls.
4. Now, while keeping the second ball as close as possible to the first one without touching, gently release it. The repulsion force will push the second ball away slightly.
5. Repeat this process several times, carefully releasing the second ball closer to the first ball each time. With enough repetitions, the balls will eventually come into contact with each other.
The key here is to gradually overcome the repulsion force by repeatedly moving the balls closer to each other without actually touching. By doing so, you will eventually close the gap enough for them to touch.
Remember, however, that this process requires patience and skill to execute successfully. Also, make sure to follow any necessary safety precautions when dealing with charged objects.