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ellieee
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they said that Y is acting as the ground, what does it mean?
What does it mean for an object to act as the "ground"?
In summary, when we say we ground all other conductors, we mean we connect them to a voltage source of zero volts.
they said that Y is acting as the ground, what does it mean?
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Delta2
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It means that Can Y supplies (some of ) its free electrons so that Can X can have negative charge.
But it is some sort of overstatement, because a vital characteristic in order for something to be called ground is not only to be able to give free electrons but also to keep its potential constant regardless of how many electrons it gives or takes. And this thing (constant potential) does not hold for Can Y.
But it is some sort of overstatement, because a vital characteristic in order for something to be called ground is not only to be able to give free electrons but also to keep its potential constant regardless of how many electrons it gives or takes. And this thing (constant potential) does not hold for Can Y.
- #3
Doc Al
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Watch this:
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hmmm27
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Can Y is not the ground in the second frame (nor the first, for that matter. I guess you can only go so far with comic books.)
There are two hands in the second frame ; how many people do you think that is ?
There are two hands in the second frame ; how many people do you think that is ?
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- #5
Doc Al
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Indeed. It is sloppily worded.hmmm27 said:
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DaveE
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I think it means you don't have the best physics instructor. That wording is confusing, at best, but I'd say it's just wrong. Perhaps they should have just said "can Y is a source of the excess electrons in can X".ellieee said:
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ellieee
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Doc Al said:
that's the video I was watching..
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alan123hk
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When we say we ground all other conductors, we mean that we connect them to a voltage source of zero volts. Recall that voltage is always defined relative to a reference. For instance, we may take one of the conductors as the ground reference and then measure all absolute voltages relative to this conductor.
We may connect the conductors to a much larger body, one with infinite capacitance. Then charge can be freely removed or added to the ground without changing its potential. In other words, it can be a direct physical connection to the earth.
We may connect the conductors to a much larger body, one with infinite capacitance. Then charge can be freely removed or added to the ground without changing its potential. In other words, it can be a direct physical connection to the earth.
FAQ: What does it mean for an object to act as the "ground"?
What does it mean for an object to act as the "ground"?
When an object is referred to as the "ground", it means that it is the reference point or starting point for measuring other objects or forces. It is often used as a point of comparison or stability.
How does an object act as the "ground"?
An object can act as the "ground" by providing a stable and stationary surface for other objects to rest on or be compared to. It can also act as a reference point for measuring forces and motion.
What types of objects can act as the "ground"?
Any object can potentially act as the "ground" as long as it meets the criteria of being a stable and stationary reference point. This can include the Earth's surface, a table, or even a person's feet.
Why is it important to have a "ground" reference point in scientific experiments?
A "ground" reference point is important in scientific experiments because it provides a stable and consistent starting point for measurements and comparisons. It helps to eliminate variables and ensure accurate and reliable results.
Can an object be both the "ground" and the object being measured?
Yes, an object can act as both the "ground" and the object being measured. For example, in an experiment to measure the force of gravity on an object, the Earth's surface can act as the "ground" and also be the object being measured.