Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Electric force between point charges

Electric force between point charges — practice question

(a)[2]

Using electric field lines, explain why the charge on an isolated spherical conductor can be regarded as a point charge at its centre for points outside the sphere.

(b(i))[3]

Two isolated protons in a vacuum are separated by a distance $x$. Calculate the ratio $\dfrac{\text{electric force between the two protons}}{\text{gravitational force between the two protons}}$.

(b(ii))[1]

Using your answer in (i), suggest why gravitational forces are ignored when finding the force between charged particles.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Field lines at right angles to the surface / radial / coming from the centre

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