* Attraction: If the charged object is positively charged, it will attract the electrons in the neutral object towards it. This is because opposite charges attract.
* Repulsion: If the charged object is negatively charged, it will repel the electrons in the neutral object away from it. This is because like charges repel.
This redistribution of electrons is called electrostatic induction. It results in a temporary separation of charge within the neutral object. The side of the neutral object closest to the charged object will develop an opposite charge, while the opposite side will develop the same charge.
Example:
Imagine a negatively charged rod brought near a neutral metal sphere.
1. The electrons in the sphere will be repelled by the negative charge on the rod.
2. This causes an excess of negative charge on the far side of the sphere and a deficiency of negative charge (meaning a positive charge) on the side closest to the rod.
Important Notes:
* No net charge transfer: The neutral object remains neutral overall. It doesn't gain or lose any electrons permanently. The charges merely re-arrange themselves.
* Temporary effect: The separation of charge only lasts as long as the charged object is nearby. Once the charged object is removed, the electrons in the neutral object will return to their original distribution, making the object neutral again.
This process of electrostatic induction is the basis for many electrical phenomena, including the operation of electroscopes and the attraction of objects to charged surfaces.
