Physics Book - User contributions [en]

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:48:04Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

Note: Please forgive the huge images. As of 4/9/17 images cannot be uploaded properly.

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:47:53Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters
Note: Please forgive the huge images. As of 4/9/17 images cannot be uploaded properly.

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:43:24Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:42:19Z

Lmasters3: /* Charge on a Conductor */

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]

[[File:IMG_20170409_173437547.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

[[File:example.jpg|thumb|left]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

File:IMG 20170409 173437547.jpg

2017-04-10T01:41:12Z

Lmasters3:

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:40:21Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

[[File:example.jpg|thumb|left]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:31:18Z

Lmasters3: /* Connectedness */

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg|thumb|right]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:30:39Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg|thumb|right]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

[[File:IMG_20170203_191339738.jpg]]

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

File:IMG 20170203 191339738.jpg

2017-04-10T01:29:46Z

Lmasters3: Lmasters3 uploaded a new version of "File:IMG 20170203 191339738.jpg"

File:IMG 20170203 191339738.jpg

2017-04-10T01:29:02Z

Lmasters3:

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-10T01:24:47Z

Lmasters3: /* Charge on an Insulator */

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg|thumb|right]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1capacitor.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T23:28:58Z

Lmasters3:

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T23:28:17Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator==
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T23:27:57Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T23:24:32Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

[[File:Mathinsight.png|300px|thumb|center|Visual Representation]]

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T23:24:21Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

le:Mathinsight.png|300px|thumb|center|Visual Representation]]

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T22:03:43Z

Lmasters3:

Edited Spring 2017 by Lily Masters

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why charge concentrates at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

File:Example1capacitor.jpg

2017-04-09T21:53:15Z

Lmasters3:

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T21:52:13Z

Lmasters3:

RESERVED by JAY SHAH Reserved Fall 2016 Hayley Tsuchiyama '''RESERVED SPRING 2017 LILY MASTERS'''

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:conductor1.jpg]]
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

[[File:conductor3.jpg|If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)]]

==Charge on an Insulator
[[File:insulator1.jpg]]
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
[[File:insulator2.jpg]]

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
[[File:example1.jpg]]
===Solution===
[[File:example2.jpg|Conductor]]
[[File:example3insulator.jpg|Insulator]]

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why does charge concentrate at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

File:Insulator2.jpg

2017-04-09T21:48:40Z

Lmasters3:

File:Example3insulator.jpg

2017-04-09T21:48:17Z

Lmasters3:

File:Example2.jpg

2017-04-09T21:47:39Z

Lmasters3:

File:Conductor3.jpg

2017-04-09T21:47:03Z

Lmasters3:

File:Conductor2 (2).jpg

2017-04-09T21:46:54Z

Lmasters3:

File:Conductor1.jpg

2017-04-09T21:46:39Z

Lmasters3:

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T21:46:08Z

Lmasters3:

RESERVED by JAY SHAH Reserved Fall 2016 Hayley Tsuchiyama '''RESERVED SPRING 2017 LILY MASTERS'''

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

If the conductor is spherical, charge is evenly distributed on the outside surface.

If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)

==Charge on an Insulator
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.

==Example==
A neutral metal sphere enters a capacitor, as shown. Show the charge distribution on the sphere. If the sphere was instead made of plastic, show the the charge distribution.
===Solution===

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explanation of why does charge concentrate at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T20:54:05Z

Lmasters3:

RESERVED by JAY SHAH Reserved Fall 2016 Hayley Tsuchiyama '''RESERVED SPRING 2017 LILY MASTERS'''

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Conductors==
===Charge Distribution===
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

If the conductor is spherical, charge is evenly distributed on the outside surface.

If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)
===Interactions with Other Objects===
A charged conductor interact with

==Insulator==
===Charge Distribution===
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.
===Interactions with Other Objects===
A charged insulator

==Examples==
===Conductor===
An electron approaches a neutral metal sphere. Show the charge distribution on the sphere.

===Insulator====
An electron approaches a neutral plastic rod. Show the charge distribution on the rod.

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explenation of why does charge concentrate at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T18:00:07Z

Lmasters3:

RESERVED by JAY SHAH Reserved Fall 2016 Hayley Tsuchiyama '''RESERVED SPRING 2017 LILY MASTERS'''

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

If the conductor is spherical, charge is evenly distributed on the outside surface.

If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)

==Charge on an Insulator==
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.

==Examples==

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
*[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explenation of why does charge concentrate at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-09T17:57:48Z

Lmasters3:

RESERVED by JAY SHAH Reserved Fall 2016 Hayley Tsuchiyama '''RESERVED SPRING 2017 LILY MASTERS'''

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (protons and electrons). While all materials contain these two basic units, the charge distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: conductors and insulators. This article will explore the differences between a charged conductor and a charged insulator.

==Charge on a Conductor==
A conductor is an object that contains mobile charges which allow an electric current to flow through the material. An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

If the conductor is spherical, charge is evenly distributed on the outside surface.

If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)

==Charge on an Insulator==
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.

However, the atoms within an insulator do polarize to some extent. When exposed to an electric field, the atoms will remain stationary but polarize and orient themselves with the applied field.

==Examples==

==Connectedness==

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

==See also==
[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer]
[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Insulators Insulators]
[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Conductivity Conductivity]
[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Polarization_of_a_conductor Polarization of a Conductor]

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explenation of why does charge concentrate at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Charged Conductor and Charged Insulator

2017-04-03T14:24:33Z

Lmasters3:

RESERVED by JAY SHAH Reserved Fall 2016 Hayley Tsuchiyama '''RESERVED SPRING 2017 LILY MASTERS'''

Different materials polarize differently in the presence of an electric field depending on their physical makeup. Two classes: Conductors and Insulators, are extremely important to understanding equilibrium in different materials.

==Introduction==

All materials are made of atoms that contain positive and negative charges (electrons and protons). While all materials contain these two basic units, their distribution patterns change depending on the microscopic behavior of the atom's movement in an electric field. These differences have created two distinct classes of materials: Conductors and Insulators. The physical principals of both classes will be discussed.

A quick chart is displayed below summarizing major differences between Conductors and Insulators.

[[File:physicstable.png|200px|thumb|left|Table of differences between Conductors and Insulators]]

===Conductor===

A conductor is an object or type of material that allows the flow of electrical current in one or more directions. The most important factor of all conductors is that they contain mobile charges. In many chemistry classes, metals are described as a ''sea of electrons'', this means that the negative charges within that metal have the ability to move freely throughout the entirety of the metal. This means that if a charge is transferred to a conductor at any given location, that charge will quickly be distributed across the entire surface of the object. It is important to note that not ''all'' the electrons have the ability to move, only the valence electrons, the electrons in the outer shell of the atom.

Some examples of common conductors include:
- Metals
- Ionic (Salt) Aqueous Solutions
- Human Body

Because of their ability to move electrons freely, conductors transfer both heat and electricity very easily. It is fairly easy for conductors to conduct an electric current under the influence of an electric field.

===Insulator===
An electrical insulator is an object or type of material that restricts or impedes the free flow of electrons within that material. Unlike conductors, insulators do not contain mobile charges, and do not have valence electrons that are free to move throughout the material. Because of this limitation, if a charge is transferred to an insulator at any given location, that excess charge will remain at the initial location. These charges are rarely distributed evenly across an insulator's surface.

Some examples of common insulators include:
- Rubber
- Glass
- Air

Because insulators lack the ability to have electrons move freely, they cannot transfer heat and electricity very well. It is nearly impossible to conduct an electric current under the influence of an electric field.

==Charge on a Conductor==
[[File:Inschargedist.gif|thumb|Sphere Conductor]]
An object made of a conducting material will permit charge to be transferred across the entire surface of the object. If charge is transferred to the object at a given location, that charge is quickly distributed across the entire surface of the object. The distribution of charge is the result of electron movement. Since conductors allow for electrons to be transported from particle to particle, a charged object will always distribute its charge until the overall repulsive forces between excess electrons is minimized. This all occurs because of the polarization within the conductor.

If the conductor is spherical, charge is evenly distributed on the outside surface.

If the conductor is not spherical, surface charge density is higher where radius of curvature is smaller. (i.e on sharp points or corner of conductor.)

[[File:hollow.png]]

In the example here, a positively charged metal rod is touched to a neutral conductor. The positive charge from the metal rod is transferred to the surface of the conductor. Because the valence electrons have the ability to move, the positive charge is spread out over the surface of the conductor.

==Charge on an Insulator==
In contrast to conductors, insulators are materials that impede the free flow of electrons from atom to atom and molecule to molecule. If charge is transferred to an insulator at a given location, the excess charge will remain at the initial location of charging. The particles of the insulator do not permit the free flow of electrons; subsequently charge is seldom distributed evenly across the surface of an insulator.
[[File:insulator.png]]

The electrons don't need to spread out evenly. Instead, they stay at where they were.

While insulators are not useful for transferring charge, they do serve a critical role in electrostatic experiments and demonstrations. Conductive objects are often mounted upon insulating objects. This arrangement of a conductor on top of an insulator prevents charge from being transferred from the conductive object to its surroundings.

== See also ==
[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Charge_Transfer Charge Transfer] This topic talk about the charge transfer between objects

===External links===
[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html Explenation of why does charge concentrate at a point on a conductor]

==References==
[http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/estatics/Lesson-1/Conductors-and-Insulators]

[http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Electrostatics/text/Electric_charge_distribution/index.html

Relative Velocity

2016-11-27T21:07:56Z

Lmasters3:

Claimed by Lily Masters (Fall 2016)

The motion of an object may look different when viewed from a different reference frame. This can be described by defining the relative velocity of the reference frame.

==Relative Velocity==

When an object is moving in a medium that is also moving, its velocity may be different depending on the location of the observer. For example, consider a boat moving through a flowing river. If the observer is aboard the boat, the velocity will be different than if the observer was standing by the side of the river. This can be more easily described through vector addition with one reference frame considered an intermediate reference frame:

<math>\vec{v}_{AC} = \vec{v}_{AB} + \vec{v}_{BC}</math>

This means that the velocity of A with respect to C is equal to the sum of the velocity of A with respect to B and the velocity of B with respect to C. In this case, B is the intermediate reference frame.

==Examples==

===Airplane in Wind===

[[File:planewind.gif]]

An airplane is flying with a velocity of <math>\vec{v}_{PA}</math> relative to the air. The wind is moving with a velocity of <math>\vec{v}_{AG}</math> relative to an observer on the ground. The velocity of the plane relative to the ground can be found using vector addition:

<math>\vec{v}_{PG} = \vec{v}_{PA} + \vec{v}_{AG}</math>

Suppose the plane is moving with a velocity of <math>\left \langle {150,20,0} \right \rangle</math> km/h relative to the air. The wind is moving with a velocity of <math>\left \langle {-25,0,-10} \right \rangle</math> km/h relative to the ground. What is the velocity of the plane relative to the ground?

Answer:

<math>\vec{v}_{PG} = \left \langle {150,20,0} \right \rangle + \left \langle {-25,0,-10} \right \rangle</math>

<math>\vec{v}_{PG} = \left \langle {125,20,-10} \right \rangle</math>

===Boat in Current===

[[File:boatc4.gif]]

A boat is moving straight across a river with a velocity of <math>\vec{v}_{BW}</math> relative to the water. The river has a current flowing perpendicular to the boat which has a velocity of <math>\vec{v}_{WE}</math> relative to the earth. The velocity of the boat relative to the Earth can be found using vector addition and the bearing of the boat can be found using trig relations:

<math>\vec{v}_{BE} = \vec{v}_{BW} + \vec{v}_{WE}</math>

<math>\Theta = \arctan \frac{\left \Vert \vec{v}_{WE} \right \|}{\left \Vert \vec{v}_{BW} \right \|}</math>

Suppose the boat is moving straight across the river with a velocity of 37 m/s relative to the water and the current is moving downstream and perpendicular to the boat with a velocity of 4 m/s relative to the earth. What is the velocity of the boat relative to the earth and what is its bearing?

Answer:

<math>\vec{v}_{BE} = \left \langle {37,0,0} \right \rangle + \left \langle {0,-4,0} \right \rangle</math>

<math>\vec{v}_{BE} = \left \langle {37,-4,0} \right \rangle</math>

<math>\Theta = \arctan \frac{4}{37}</math>

<math>\Theta = 6.17018^\circ</math>

== See also ==
*[[Velocity]]
*[[Speed and Velocity]]
*[[Derivation of Average Velocity]]
*[[2-Dimensional Motion]]

===External links===
[http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/relmot.html#c1 HyperPhysics: Relative Motion]

==References==
[http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/relmot.html#c1 HyperPhysics: Relative Motion]

[[Category:Velocity and Momentum]]

File:Boatc4.gif

2016-11-27T20:49:35Z

Lmasters3:

File:Planewind.gif

2016-11-27T20:43:14Z

Lmasters3:

Relative Velocity

2016-11-27T20:39:13Z

Lmasters3:

Relative Velocity

2016-11-26T19:52:49Z

Lmasters3:

Claimed by Lily Masters (Fall 2016)