Solving Static Charge: Calculating Excess Electrons (-18 μC)

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In summary, static charge occurs when there is an imbalance of electrons on the surface of an object. It can be calculated using the formula Q = I x t and can have various effects on objects and materials. To control or eliminate static charge, materials with good conductivity can be used, humidity levels can be increased, and grounding or anti-static materials can be utilized. Understanding and solving static charge is crucial in industries such as electronics, manufacturing, and healthcare, as well as in everyday life to prevent static shocks.
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Homework Statement


On a dry day, your body can accumulate static charge from walking across a carpet or from brushing your hair.

If your body develops a charge of -18 (microcoulombs), how many excess electrons has it acquired?






The Attempt at a Solution


i don't know what to do lol.
 
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I can provide a response to this content by explaining the concept of static charge and how to calculate the number of excess electrons in a body with a charge of -18 μC.

Static charge is a type of electric charge that builds up on the surface of an object due to the transfer of electrons. This charge can be positive or negative, and it occurs when there is an imbalance of electrons on the surface of an object. In this case, the body has a negative charge of -18 μC, which means that it has an excess of electrons.

To calculate the number of excess electrons, we can use the formula Q = ne, where Q is the charge in coulombs, n is the number of excess electrons, and e is the fundamental unit of charge (1.6 x 10^-19 C). Rearranging the formula, we get n = Q/e.

Substituting the given value of charge (-18 μC = -1.8 x 10^-5 C) and the value of e, we get n = (-1.8 x 10^-5 C) / (1.6 x 10^-19 C) = -1.125 x 10^14 excess electrons. This means that the body has acquired 1.125 x 10^14 excess electrons, which is a significant number considering the microcoulomb unit.

In conclusion, by understanding the concept of static charge and using the formula Q = ne, we can calculate the number of excess electrons in a body with a charge of -18 μC. This calculation helps us understand the magnitude of the static charge and its potential effects.
 

FAQ: Solving Static Charge: Calculating Excess Electrons (-18 μC)

How do you calculate the amount of excess electrons in a system?

The amount of excess electrons in a system can be calculated using the formula Q = I x t, where Q is the charge in coulombs, I is the current in amperes, and t is the time in seconds. This formula can be used to determine the total charge of the system, which can then be converted to excess electrons using the charge of an electron (-1.6 x 10^-19 coulombs).

What causes static charge to occur?

Static charge occurs when there is an imbalance of electrons on the surface of an object. This can happen when two objects with different levels of electric charge come into contact with each other, causing electrons to transfer between them. It can also occur due to friction between two objects, where one object gains electrons and becomes negatively charged while the other loses electrons and becomes positively charged.

How does static charge affect objects and materials?

Static charge can have various effects on objects and materials, depending on the level of charge and the conductivity of the materials involved. It can cause objects to attract or repel each other, and can also cause materials to stick together. Additionally, static charge can cause damage to electronic devices and can create sparks, which can be a fire hazard in certain environments.

How can static charge be controlled or eliminated?

Static charge can be controlled or eliminated by using materials that are good conductors, such as metal, to allow excess electrons to flow away. It can also be reduced by increasing the humidity in the environment, as moisture can help dissipate static charge. Grounding or using anti-static materials can also help to control static charge.

What are some real-world applications of understanding and solving static charge?

Understanding and solving static charge is important in various industries, such as electronics, manufacturing, and healthcare. In electronics, static charge can cause damage to sensitive components, so understanding how to control it is crucial. In manufacturing, static charge can affect the quality of products, so solving it is necessary for ensuring consistency. In healthcare, understanding static charge is important for preventing sparks that could ignite flammable substances in medical environments. Additionally, understanding static charge can also be useful in everyday life, such as preventing static shocks when touching metal objects.

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