Figure 13 shows a negatively charged metal sphere, M - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 7
Figure 13 shows a negatively charged metal sphere, M.
(i) Sphere M is negatively charged because it has
- A gained electrons
(ii) A metal sphere, N, is connected t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 13 shows a negatively charged metal sphere, M - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Sphere M is negatively charged because it has
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Answer
Sphere M is negatively charged because it has gained electrons. This occurs when an object accumulates excess electrons, resulting in a net negative charge.
Step 2
Describe what happens in the wire connecting sphere N to earth when the spark jumps between M and N.
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Answer
When the spark jumps between spheres M and N, electrons will move from sphere N down the wire to the earth. This effectively discharges sphere M and neutralizes the excess negative charge on N.
Step 3
Describe a use of earthing in everyday life.
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Answer
One common use of earthing is in electrical devices such as kettles. The purpose of earthing is to provide a path for any fault current to flow safely to earth, preventing electric shock to the user.
Step 4
Draw on Figure 15 the shape and direction of the electric field between the plates.
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Answer
To represent the electric field between the parallel metal plates, draw straight arrows originating from the positively charged plate and pointing towards the negatively charged plate. This indicates the direction of the electric field lines, which move from positive to negative.
