Question

Two identical metal spheres charged with $+12\mu C$ and $-8\mu C$ are kept at certain distance in air. They are brought into contact and then kept at the same distance. The ratio of the magnitudes of electrostatic forces between them before and after contact is :

• A. $12:1$
• B. $8:1$
• C. $24:1$
• D. $4:1$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $24:1$

Before contact

Initial force $F_i=\frac{K12(-8)}{l^2}=\frac{96K}{l^2}$

When brought together , the charge on each sphere is $\frac{12-8}{2}=2$

$F_f=\frac{K4}{l^2}$

$\frac{F_i}{F_0}=24:1$