Coulomb's law theoretical hypothetical question

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using electrostatic levitation to hold an object off the ground, with the goal of deflecting bullets. The scenario involves two layers of cations in a vacuum, with the bottom layer being stationary and the top layer able to move down as a unit. However, the experts in the conversation point out that this setup is unnecessary and that charged conducting surfaces are enough to achieve the desired effect. They also mention the need for supports or active electronics to keep the arrangement stable. Ultimately, it is determined that electrostatics would not be effective in deflecting a bullet, as it is not a charged object.
  • #1
Rhasz
5
0
The Scenario:
Let's say one could have a lot of cations produced from a gas in a single plane contained in a 1 square foot area (like a fence around sheep). This plane of cations is over another one that is on the ground. So basically two layers of Cations in a tall hollow cube like container such that the top layer is not pushed above the initial height by the bottom layer through repelling forces (magically forced to not go above initial height). Also the inside of the hollow cube like container is a vacuum except the before mentioned cations.
Also magically, the bottom layer is not moving up or down and the ions in the top layer can only move down as a unit, i.e the whole plane of them.

The question:
Would the top layer of ions be able to hold an object off the ground (a Nerf ball) by using the repulsive force coming from the bottom layer or would it go through the top layer of cations because they are from a gas?
 
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  • #2
Why so complicated? This is electrostatic levitation. You don't need vacuum, magic or whatever, charged conducting surfaces are enough.
There is one downside: you need supports at the side, or some active electronics keeping the arrangement stable.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
Why so complicated? This is electrostatic levitation. You don't need vacuum, magic or whatever, charged conducting surfaces are enough.
There is one downside: you need supports at the side, or some active electronics keeping the arrangement stable.
Because I want to shoot it and have it deflect bullets like a shield in star wars or something similar.
 
  • #4
Rhasz said:
Because I want to shoot it and have it deflect bullets like a shield in star wars or something similar.

You want to use electrostatics to deflect a bullet?
 
  • #5
Drakkith said:
You want to use electrostatics to deflect a bullet?
Yes, like those wind tunnels used to practice skydiving except they are charged particles to work closer to the surface.
 
  • #6
Rhasz said:
Yes, like those wind tunnels used to practice skydiving except they are charged particles to work closer to the surface.

Electrostatics won't deflect a bullet. The bullet isn't charged and won't experience a force.
 
  • #7
But the nerf ball will be floating like the one in the original setup? I was assuming also the object was not charged.
 
  • #8
Rhasz said:
But the nerf ball will be floating like the one in the original setup? I was assuming also the object was not charged.

I doubt it. It's uncharged so it would probably just fall through the gas.
 
  • #9
Drakkith said:
I doubt it. It's uncharged so it would probably just fall through the gas.
Ok thanks
 

FAQ: Coulomb's law theoretical hypothetical question

1. What is Coulomb's law?

Coulomb's law is a fundamental law of physics that describes the electrostatic force between two charged particles. It states that the force between two charged particles is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

2. How does Coulomb's law apply to hypothetical situations?

Coulomb's law can be applied to hypothetical situations by using theoretical calculations and assumptions to determine the electrostatic force between charged particles. This allows scientists to predict and understand the behavior of charged particles in different scenarios.

3. Can Coulomb's law be applied to any type of charged particle?

Yes, Coulomb's law can be applied to any type of charged particle, whether it is a single point charge or a charged object with a specific shape and size. It is a fundamental law that applies to all types of charged particles.

4. How does Coulomb's law affect the behavior of particles in an electric field?

Coulomb's law plays a crucial role in determining the behavior of particles in an electric field. It explains how charged particles interact with each other and with the electric field itself, providing a fundamental understanding of electric forces and fields.

5. Are there any limitations to Coulomb's law?

Like any scientific law, Coulomb's law has its limitations. It is based on the assumption of point charges and does not take into account the effects of quantum mechanics. Additionally, it only applies to static, stationary charges and does not consider the effects of moving charges or changing electric fields.

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