Chapter 32, Problem 38A

Explain how an object that is electrically neutral can be attracted to an object that is charged.

To determine

To explain: The process of attraction of an electrically neutral object to a charged object.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

According to the charge conservation principle, an electron is neither created nor destroyed. They are attracted or repelled from one surface to another to conserve the quantity.

When an electrically neutral object is placed near a charged object, then the side which is nearer to the charged surface will exchange electrons. Since the opposite charges attract each other. Thus, electrically charged particles will attract neutral particles. Thus, both the surfaces near have equal charges with opposite signs. Once both the charges the complete sharing of electrons, the neutral surface pulls towards the electrically charged surface and both objects stick together.

Conclusion:

Thus, surfaces with the opposite charges attract each other and sticks together.