Because of electrostatic polarization, a sufficiently charged rubber balloon will attract a neutral horizontal insulating plate strongly enough so that the balloon sticks firmly to the plate's bottom. If the horizontal plate is a conductor instead of an insulator, the charged balloon will
A) stick only if the plate is connected to the earth.
B) stick only if the plate is insulated from the earth.
C) stick in either case.
D) not stick at all.
E) repel the plate.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a charged balloon approaches a conductive plate, whether the plate is earthed or not, the electric field of the balloon induces opposite charges on the near side of the plate and like charges on the far side. This induced charge distribution creates an attractive force between the balloon and the plate, allowing the balloon to stick to the plate in either case.

Because of Electrostatic Polarization, a Sufficiently Charged Rubber Balloon Will