A metallic object has a net charge on it. For steady state conditions, the excess charge is
A) spread evenly throughout the object.
B) in the center of the object.
C) only on the surface.
D) on the bottom of the object.
E) on the north side of the object.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For steady state conditions, the excess charge will distribute itself so that it resides entirely on the surface of the object. This is due to the fact that excess charge will always repel other excess charge, and will therefore move as far away from itself as possible. As a result, any excess charge inside the object will experience a net force that drives it to the surface, where it can spread out and minimize its potential energy.

A Metallic Object Has a Net Charge on It