Explain how an electroscope can be charged by the method of induction
To understand how an electroscope can be charged by the method of induction, let's break it down into simple steps:
Step 1: Start with a neutral electroscope. An electroscope typically consists of a metal rod attached to two thin metal leaves.
Step 2: Bring a charged object close to the electroscope without physical contact. The charged object, let's say a positively charged rod, can be brought close to the top of the electroscope.
Step 3: Due to the presence of the positively charged rod, the electrons within the metal rod of the electroscope will be repelled. As a result, the electrons in the metal rod will move away, leaving the top of the rod with a deficit of electrons, thereby becoming positively charged.
Step 4: Since the metal rod is conductive, the positive charge on the top of the rod will induce a temporary redistribution of electrons in the metal leaves. Electrons within the leaves will be repelled by the positive charge on the top of the rod, causing them to move away from each other.
Step 5: The leaves, which are initially touching, will now spread apart due to the repulsive forces between the like charges. This indicates that the electroscope has been charged by the method of induction.
It's important to note that during the process of induction, the electroscope itself does not gain or lose any electrons. The charges are temporarily redistributed within the electroscope. If the charged object is then removed, the electroscope will quickly return to its neutral state.
To verify the charge on the electroscope obtained by induction, you can use a separate charged object to bring it closer. If the electroscope is repelled or attracted, this would indicate the presence of charge.
Now you have an understanding of how an electroscope can be charged by the method of induction.