Chapter 19, Problem 1PCE

Predict/Explain An electrically neutral object is given a positive charge. (a) In principle, does the object’s mass increase, decrease, or stay the same as a result of being charged? (b) Choose the best explanation from among the following:

1. I.              To give the object a positive charge we must remove some of its electrons; this will reduce its mass.
2. II.            Since electric charges have mass, giving the object a positive charge will increase its mass.
3. III.         Charge is conserved, and therefore the mass of the object will remain the same.