Question

Among identical spheres A and B having charges as \(-5\,\text{C}\) and \(-16\,\text{C}\):

• A. \(-5\,\text{C}\) is at higher potential
• B. \(-16\,\text{C}\) is at higher potential
• C. both are at equal potential
• D. it cannot be said

Hint:

For identical conductors:

Potential (propto) charge
A charge with a textbflarger numerical negative value has a textbflower potential

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall the formula for electric potential of a charged sphere. For a conducting sphere: \[ V = \frac{kQ}{R} \] where \(k\) is a constant and \(R\) is the radius of the sphere. Step 2: Compare the given spheres. The spheres are identical, so their radii are the same. Hence, electric potential depends only on the charge. Step 3: Compare the charges. \[ Q_A = -5\,\text{C}, \quad Q_B = -16\,\text{C} \] Since: \[ -5>-16 \] \(-5\,\text{C}\) corresponds to a higher (less negative) potential. Step 4: Final conclusion. The sphere carrying charge \(-5\,\text{C}\) is at a higher potential. \[ \boxed{\text{(A)}} \]