A metallic sphere of radius 5 cm is charged such that the potential of its surface is 100 V (relative to infinity).Which of the following plots correctly shows the potential as a function of distance from the center of the sphere?

A) plot W
B) plot X
C) plot Y
D) plot Z

Question

A metallic sphere of radius 5 cm is charged such that the potential of its surface is 100 V (relative to infinity) .Which of the following plots correctly shows the potential as a function of distance from the center of the sphere?

A) plot W 
B) plot X 
C) plot Y 
D) plot Z

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential inside a charged spherical shell is constant and equal to the potential of the surface. Therefore, the potential inside the sphere in this case will also be 100 V. As we move away from the center of the sphere, the potential decreases inversely with distance, following a 1/r relationship. This means that the correct plot will start at 100 V at r=0 and smoothly decrease to 0 V as r approaches 5 cm (the radius of the sphere). Plot B shows this behavior, while the other plots do not have the correct shape or scale.

A Metallic Sphere of Radius 5 Cm Is Charged Such