Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Capacitors and capacitance

Capacitors and capacitance — practice question

An insulated metal sphere with radius $R$ is placed in a vacuum. Its charge $q$ may be treated as a point charge located at the centre of the sphere.
(a(i))[1]

State an expression, in terms of $R$ and $q$, for the surface potential $V$ of the sphere.

(a(ii))[1]

Define capacitance and hence show that the capacitance $C$ of the sphere is given by $C = 4\pi\varepsilon_0 R$.

(b(i))[2]

An isolated metal sphere has a radius of $45\,\text{cm}$. Using the expression from (a)(ii), calculate the capacitance of the sphere, in picofarad.

(b(ii))[3]

The sphere is charged to a potential of $9.0 \times 10^5\,\text{V}$. A spark takes place, partly discharging the sphere so that its potential falls to $3.6 \times 10^5\,\text{V}$. Determine the energy of the spark.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Correct form $V = \dfrac{q}{4\pi\varepsilon_0 R}$

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