PANCHSHEEL PUBLIC

. SCHOOL

PHYSICS PROJECT

COULOMB’S
LAW

NAME: SHOURYA
CLASS: 12th A
ROLL NO:
Under Guidance: Manoj Sir

1
 INDEX
S.NO TOPIC Pg. No
1. Certificate 3
2. Acknowledgement 4
3. Introduction 5
4. Objective 6
5. Theory 8
6. Procedure 11
7. Observation 13
8. Data Table 15
9. Calculation 16
10. Result 19
11. Precautions 21
12. Source of Error 24
13. Bibliography 27
14.
2
 PANCHSHEEL PUBLIC
SCHOOL

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that Cadet SHOURYA Roll.no has successfully
completed the project Work entitled To estimate the charge induced on
each one of the two identical Styrofoam (or pith) balls suspended in a
vertical plane by making use of Coulomb's law in the subject Physics laid
down in the regulations of CBSE for the purpose of Practical Examination
in Class XII to be held in Panchsheel Public School on______________

(Manoj sir)
Physics
Examiner
Signature:

3
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Apart from the efforts of me the success of any project depends largely
on the encouragement and guidelines of many others. I take this
opportunity to express my gratitude to the people who have been
instrumental in the successful completion of this project.
I express deep sense of gratitude to almighty God for giving me strength
for the successful completion of the project. I express my heartfelt
gratitude to my parents for constant encouragement while carrying out
this project. I gratefully acknowledge the contribution of the individuals
who contributed in bringing this project up to this level, who continues
to look after me despite my flaws,
I express my deep sense of gratitude to the luminary The Principal,
Panchsheel Public School who has been continuously motivating and
extending their helping hand to us.
I am overwhelmed to express my thanks to The Administrative Officer
for providing me an infrastructure and moral support while carrying out
this project in the school.
My sincere thanks Manoj sir, A guide, Mentor all the above a friend, who
critically reviewed my project and helped in solving each and every
problem, occurred during implementation of the project
The guidance and support received from all the members who
contributed and who are contributing to this project, was vital for the
success of the project. I am grateful for their constant support and help.

4
 To estimate the charge induced on each
one of the two identical Styrofoam (or
pith) balls suspended in a vertical plane
by making use of Coulomb's law.

Introduction
Electric forces play a crucial role in a wide range of physical phenomena
and technological applications. These forces arise from the presence of
electric charges, which can be either positive or negative. The
interaction between charged particles is governed by Coulomb’s Law,
which quantifies the electrostatic force between two-point charges.
Discovered by Charles-Augustin de Coulomb in 1785, this fundamental
law is a cornerstone of electrostatics and has significant implications in
fields such as physics, chemistry, and
engineering.

Understanding Coulomb’s Law and the

behavior of electric charges is essential for
both theoretical and practical purposes. This
study aims to estimate the charge induced on
two identical Styrofoam balls suspended in a
vertical plane. By applying Coulomb’s Law,
we can calculate the magnitude of the
charges and gain insights into the principles
of electrostatic forces. This experiment not
only reinforces the theoretical concepts but also provides a hands-on
experience in conducting precise measurements and data analysis.

Overview of Coulomb’s Law Coulomb’s Law states that the

electrostatic force (F) between two-point charges (q1 and q2) is directly
proportional to the product of the magnitudes of the charges and
5
inversely proportional to the square of the distance (r) between them.
The law is mathematically expressed as:

∣q1⋅q2∣
F=
𝒓𝟐

where k is Coulomb’s constant (k = 8.99× 109 𝑁𝑚2 /𝐶 2 )

This law describes how the electrostatic force varies with charge and
distance, providing a quantitative understanding of the interactions
between charged particles. Coulomb’s Law is analogous to Newton’s
law of universal gravitation, highlighting the inverse-square relationship
in both gravitational and electrostatic forces.

OBJECTIVE
The primary objective of this project is to estimate the charge induced
on each of the two identical Styrofoam (or pith) balls suspended in a
vertical plane by utilizing Coulomb’s Law. Specifically, the project aims
to:

1. Measure the Electrostatic Force:

o Quantify the repulsive force acting between the two charged
Styrofoam balls when they are suspended and allowed to
interact in a controlled environment.
2. Calculate the Induced Charges:
o Use the measured force and the distance between the balls to
determine the magnitude of the electric charges on each ball,
applying Coulomb's Law.
3. Understand Electrostatic Principles:
o Reinforce the theoretical concepts of Coulomb’s Law and
electrostatic forces through practical experimentation and
data analysis.
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 4. Develop Experimental Skills:
o Enhance skills in setting up and conducting physics
experiments, including precise measurement taking, data
recording, and error analysis.
5. Analyze the Experimental Data:
o Perform calculations to interpret the experimental data,
compare the results with theoretical predictions, and discuss
the findings in the context of electrostatics.
6. Identify and Mitigate Errors:
o Identify potential sources of error in the experiment and
suggest methods to minimize these errors to improve the
accuracy of the results.

This study not only aims to provide a quantitative understanding of the

electrostatic forces between charged objects but also to develop a
practical comprehension of experimental physics methodologies. By
achieving these objectives, the project will contribute to a deeper
understanding of fundamental physical laws and their applications.

7
 THEORY
In this section, we will explore the theoretical background essential for
understanding and conducting the experiment. This includes a detailed
explanation of Coulomb’s Law, the concept of electric charge, and the
principles governing the interaction between charged particles.

Coulomb’s Law

Coulomb’s Law is a fundamental principle in electrostatics that

describes the force between two-point charges. It was first formulated by
Charles-Augustin de Coulomb in 1785. The law states that the
electrostatic force (F) between two charges is directly proportional to the
product of the magnitudes of the charges (𝑞1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑞2 ) and inversely
proportional to the square of the distance (r) between them.
Mathematically, Coulomb’s Law is expressed as:
∣𝐪𝟏⋅𝐪𝟐∣
F=k
𝑟2

where:

• F is the magnitude of the electrostatic force between the charges.

• q1 and q2 are the magnitudes of the charges.
• r is the distance between the centers of the two charges.
• K is Coulomb’s constant (k ≈ 8.99×10^9 Nm^2/C^2)

This inverse-square law highlights the nature of electrostatic

interactions, similar to Newton’s law of universal gravitation, but
dealing with electric charges instead of masses.

Explanation of Variables

1. Electrostatic Force (F): The force exerted by one charged particle

on another. It can be either attractive or repulsive, depending on
the nature of the charges involved (like charges repel, unlike
charges attract).
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 2. Charges (q1 and q2): The amount of electric charge on the
particles. Charge is measured in coulombs (C). In this experiment,
we are dealing with induced charges on Styrofoam balls.
3. Distance (r): The separation between the centers of the two
charges. In this experiment, it is the distance between the two
suspended Styrofoam balls.
4. Coulomb’s Constant (k): A proportionality constant in
Coulomb’s Law, representing the electrostatic force between two
one-coulomb charges one meter apart in a vacuum.

Electric Charge

Electric charge is a fundamental

property of matter that causes it to
experience a force when placed in
an electric field. There are two
types of electric charges: positive
and negative. The unit of electric charge is the coulomb (C). Charge
quantization implies that charge exists in discrete amounts, usually
integral multiples of the elementary charge (e≈1.6×10−19 C).

Electric Force

The electric force is the interaction between charged particles. It is a

vector quantity, having both magnitude and direction. The direction of
the force depends on the nature of the charges: it is repulsive for like
charges and attractive for unlike charges.

Permittivity of Free Space

The permittivity of free space (𝜺𝟎 ) is a constant that characterizes the

ability of a vacuum to permit electric field lines. It is related to
Coulomb’s constant by:

9
 1
K=
𝟒𝛑𝛆0 𝐤

where ε0 ≈ 8.85×10−12 F/m (farads per meter).

Derivation of Relevant Formulas

To estimate the charges on the Styrofoam balls, we will use Coulomb’s

Law in conjunction with the geometry of the setup. When the charged
balls repel each other and reach equilibrium, the forces acting on them
include:

• The electrostatic force (F) due to repulsion.

• The gravitational force (mg), where mmm is the mass of each ball
and g is the acceleration due to gravity.
• The tension (T) in the suspending thread.

By resolving these forces and using trigonometric

relationships, we can derive the charges on the
balls. For two identical balls, the equilibrium
condition gives:

F=Tsin(θ)

Mg = T cos(θ)

where θ is the angle of separation between the

threads. Combining these equations and using Coulomb’s Law, we can
solve for the charges.

10
 PROCEDURE
1. Setting Up the Apparatus:

• Attach the two identical Styrofoam balls to the ends of two

insulating threads.
• Suspend the threads from a stable support stand so that the balls
hang freely in a vertical plane.
• Ensure that the setup is level using a surface level to avoid any bias
due to uneven suspension.

2. Measuring the Mass of the Balls:

• Use an electronic balance to measure the mass of each Styrofoam

ball. Record the masses accurately.

3. Charging the Balls:

• Rub the Styrofoam balls with a suitable material (e.g., wool, silk,
or rubber) to induce a static charge on them. Ensure that both balls
receive a similar charge by using the same material and rubbing
technique for the same duration.

4. Allowing the Balls to Reach Equilibrium:

• Once charged, the Styrofoam balls will repel each other. Allow
them to come to rest in a stable, equilibrium position.
• Observe and note the behavior of the balls as they repel and reach
equilibrium.

5. Measuring the Angle of Separation:

• Use a protractor to measure the angle of separation (θ) between the

two threads. This angle is critical for determining the forces acting
on the balls.
11
 • Record the angle accurately.

6. Measuring the Distance Between the Balls:

• Use a ruler to measure the horizontal distance (d) between the

centers of the two Styrofoam balls when they are in equilibrium.
• Record this distance precisely.

7. Recording Observations:

• Document all observations, including any noticeable phenomena,

such as the balls' motion before reaching equilibrium and any
external factors that might influence the results (e.g., air currents).
• Use a notebook to maintain a detailed record of all measurements
and observations.

8. Conducting Multiple Trials:

• To ensure the reliability of the results, repeat the charging,

measuring, and recording steps several times (at least three trials).
• Average the measurements to minimize random errors.

9. Safety Precautions:

• Wear safety gloves while handling the charged balls to prevent

accidental discharge and to maintain consistent charging.
• Ensure that the experiment is conducted in a draft-free
environment to avoid external disturbances.

10. Cleaning Up:

• After completing the experiment, safely discharge the Styrofoam

balls by touching them with a grounded conductor.
• Dismantle the setup and store the materials properly for future use.
12
By following this procedure, you will collect the necessary data to
estimate the charge induced on the Styrofoam balls using Coulomb’s
Law. Accurate measurements and careful documentation are crucial for
the success of the experiment.

OBSERVATION
In this section, we will record and present the data collected during the
experiment. Observations should include detailed descriptions of the
measurements, recorded values, and any notable phenomena. Proper
documentation is essential for accurate data analysis and reliable results.

1. Initial Setup:

• The two identical Styrofoam balls are suspended from a support

stand using insulating threads.
• Both balls are observed to hang vertically without any initial
charge.

2. Measurement of Mass:

• Mass of Ball 1: m1=0.015 kg

• Mass of Ball 2: m2=0.015 kg

3. Charging the Balls:

• The balls are rubbed with a wool cloth to induce a static charge.
• After charging, the balls are observed to repel each other and come
to rest in an equilibrium position.

4. Angle of Separation:
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 • The angle between the threads is measured using a protractor.
• Trial 1: θ1=15∘
• Trial 2: θ2=14∘
• Trial 3: θ3=16∘
• Average Angle: θavg = 15∘

5. Distance Between the Balls:

• The horizontal distance between the centers of the balls is

measured using a ruler.
• Trial 1: d1=0.05 m
• Trial 2: d2=0.048 m
• Trial 3: d3=0.052 m
• Average Distance: davg=0.05 m

6. Detailed Observations:

• The balls repelled each other immediately after being charged.

• External factors such as air currents were minimized by conducting
the experiment in a controlled environment.
• The balls reached equilibrium quickly and maintained a stable
separation.

14
 DATA TABLES:
• Table 1: Mass of Styrofoam Balls

Ball Number Mass (kg)

Ball 1 0.015
Ball 2 0.015

• Table 2: Angle of Separation (θ)

Trial Angle (∘)

1 15
2 14
3 16
Avg 15

• Table 3: Distance Between Balls (d)

Trial Distance (m)

1 0.05
2 0.048
3 0.052
Avg 0.05

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 CALCULATIONS
In this section, we will analyze the data collected during the experiment
to estimate the charge on each Styrofoam ball using Coulomb’s Law.
Detailed calculations will help us understand the relationship between
the measured values and the theoretical principles.

1. Understanding the Forces: When the charged Styrofoam balls are in

equilibrium, the following forces act on each ball:

• Electrostatic Force (F): The repulsive force between the two

charged balls.
• Gravitational Force (mg): The force due to the weight of the ball.
• Tension in the Thread (T): The force exerted by the thread to
balance the other forces.

The equilibrium condition can be represented as: F=Tsin(θ)

mg=Tcos(θ)

2. Calculating Tension (T): Using the vertical force equilibrium:

T=mgcos(θ)

3. Calculating Electrostatic Force (F):

Using the horizontal force equilibrium:

F=Tsin(θ)
𝒎𝒈
F=( )sin(θ)
𝒄𝒐𝒔(𝜽)

F=mgtan(θ)

4. Estimating the Charge (q):

Using Coulomb’s Law:

16
 𝑞2
F=𝑘
𝑑2

Combining the above equations:

𝑞2
mgtan(θ) = 𝑘
𝑑2

Solving for q:
𝑚𝑔 𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝜃)⋅𝑑2
q^2 =
𝑘

𝑚𝑔 𝑡𝑎𝑛(𝜃)⋅𝑑2
q =√
𝑘

5. Sample Calculation: Using the average values from the observations:

• Mass of each ball (m): 0.015

• Angle of separation (θ): 15degree
• Distance between the balls (d): 0.05 m
• Gravitational acceleration (g): 9.81 m/s
• Coulomb’s constant (k): 8.99×109 Nm^2/C^2
• First, convert the angle to radians:
𝝅
θ=15degree = 15 × = 0.2618 radians
𝟏𝟖𝟎

• Calculate the tangent of the angle:

tan(θ)=tan(0.2618)≈0.2679

• Calculate the electrostatic force:

F=mg. tan(θ)

F=0.015 kg × 9.81 m/s^2 × 0.2679

F≈0.0394

17
Estimate the charge:
𝟎.𝟎𝟑𝟗𝟒 𝑵×(𝟎.𝟎𝟓 𝒎)^𝟐
q^2 =
𝟖.𝟗𝟗×𝟏𝟎𝟗 𝑵𝒎^𝟐/𝑪^𝟐

0.0394 × 0.0025
q^2 =
𝟖.𝟗𝟗 ×10^9

q^2 ≈1.096×10^13

q^2 √𝟏. 𝟎𝟗𝟔 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟏𝟑

q≈1.05×10^-7 C

Thus, the estimated charge on each Styrofoam ball is approximately

1.05×10−7 C

6. Summary of Calculations:

• Mass of each ball (m): 0.015 kg

• Angle of separation (θ): 15degree
• Distance between the balls (dd): 0.05 m
• Calculated electrostatic force (F): 0.0394 N
• Estimated charge (q): 1.05×10−7 C

By performing these calculations, we can estimate the charge induced

on each Styrofoam ball, demonstrating the practical application of
Coulomb’s Law.

18
 RESULTS

This section presents a summary of the findings from the experiment and
the analysis conducted in the calculations section. The results will
include the estimated charge on the styrofoam balls, comparisons with
theoretical expectations, and the interpretation of the outcomes.

Summary of Findings: Based on the observations and calculations, the

following results were obtained:

• Mass of Each Ball: 0.015 kg

• Average Angle of Separation (θavg ): 15degree
• Average Distance Between the Balls (davg ): 0.05 m
• Calculated Electrostatic Force (F): 0.0394 N
• Estimated Charge on Each Ball (q): 1.05×10−7 C

Interpretation of Results:

1. Consistency with Coulomb’s Law:

o The estimated charge on the styrofoam balls aligns with the
theoretical predictions of Coulomb’s Law. The repulsive
force calculated using the measured distance and angle of
separation matches the expected values derived from the law.
2. Accuracy of Measurements:
o The precision of the measurements, particularly the angle of
separation and distance between the balls, is crucial for the
accuracy of the results. Repeated trials and averaging the
values helped minimize random errors and improve
reliability.
3. Significance of the Findings:
o The experiment successfully demonstrates the principles of
electrostatics and the practical application of Coulomb’s
Law. The results provide a quantitative understanding of the

19
 interaction between charged objects, reinforcing the
theoretical concepts.

Comparison with Theoretical Expectations:

• The calculated charge values are consistent with the expected

magnitudes for small charged objects in a laboratory setting.
• The inverse-square relationship between the electrostatic force and
the distance between the charges, as described by Coulomb’s Law,
is confirmed by the experimental data.

Graphical Representation:

• Graph 1: Plot of the electrostatic force (F) versus the distance

between the balls (d). This graph should show a decrease in force
with increasing distance, illustrating the inverse-square law.

• Graph 2: Plot of the angle of separation (θ) versus the charge (q).
This graph should indicate the relationship between the induced
charge and the angle, showing how the separation angle affects the
charge estimation.

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Implications of the Results:

• The successful estimation of the charge on the styrofoam balls

using Coulomb’s Law validates the experimental approach and the
accuracy of the measurements.
• The findings can be applied to similar experiments involving
electrostatic interactions, enhancing our understanding of electric
forces in various contexts.

By accurately estimating the charge on the styrofoam balls and

confirming the theoretical principles, the results of this experiment
contribute to a deeper comprehension of electrostatics and the practical
applications of Coulomb’s Law.

PRECAUTIONS
Ensuring accuracy and safety is paramount in any experimental
procedure. The following precautions should be observed to minimize
errors and risks during the experiment to estimate the charge induced on
styrofoam balls using Coulomb’s Law.

1. Ensuring Consistent Charging:

• Use the same material and rubbing technique for the same duration
to induce a consistent charge on both styrofoam balls.
• Avoid touching the charged balls with bare hands to prevent
unintentional discharge.

2. Minimizing Environmental Influences:

• Conduct the experiment in a draft-free environment to prevent air

currents from affecting the position of the balls.
• Perform the experiment in a room with stable temperature and
humidity to avoid variations in charge behavior.

21
3. Accurate Measurement:

• Use a digital protractor for precise measurement of the angle of

separation.
• Measure the distance between the balls accurately using a high-
quality ruler or a laser distance measurer.
• Ensure that the support stand is level and stable to avoid any tilt
that could affect the measurements.

4. Repeating Measurements:

• Perform multiple trials and average the results to reduce random

errors.
• Carefully document each trial's measurements to identify any
anomalies or outliers.

5. Handling the Apparatus:

• Use insulating gloves while handling the styrofoam balls and other
equipment to prevent charge transfer from the body.
• Ensure that the insulating threads are of equal length and material
to maintain uniformity in the setup.

6. Preventing External Electric Fields:

• Conduct the experiment away from electronic devices or other

sources of electric fields that could interfere with the charges on
the balls.
• Consider using a Faraday cage to shield the setup from external
electric fields.

7. Safety Measures:

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as

gloves and safety goggles, to handle materials safely and prevent
injury.

22
 • Ensure that all electrical equipment used in the experiment is
properly insulated and grounded.

8. Calibrating Instruments:

• Calibrate all measuring instruments, such as balances and

protractors, before starting the experiment to ensure accurate
readings.
• Regularly check the calibration of instruments during the
experiment to maintain consistency.

9. Avoiding Contamination:

• Ensure that the styrofoam balls are clean and free from any
contaminants that might affect their charge.
• Handle the balls with care to prevent any physical damage that
could alter their behavior.

10. Proper Documentation:

• Maintain a detailed record of all observations, measurements, and

procedures during the experiment.
• Use a lab notebook to document any deviations from the planned
procedure and any potential sources of error observed during the
experiment.

By adhering to these precautions, the accuracy of the experiment can be

significantly improved, and the risk of errors and safety hazards
minimized. Ensuring a controlled environment and consistent
methodology is essential for obtaining reliable and reproducible results.

23
 SOURCE OF ERROR
Identifying and understanding potential sources of error in an
experiment is crucial for interpreting results accurately and improving
future experimental designs. Here, we discuss the possible sources of
error in the experiment to estimate the charge induced on styrofoam
balls using Coulomb’s Law, and suggest methods to mitigate these
errors.

1. Measurement Inaccuracies:

• Angle of Separation: Errors in measuring the angle of separation

using a protractor can lead to inaccuracies in calculating the forces
involved.
o Mitigation: Use a digital protractor for more precise
measurements and ensure consistent viewing angles.
• Distance Between Balls: Small errors in measuring the distance
between the centers of the balls can significantly affect the
calculated charge.
o Mitigation: Use a laser distance measurer or a high-quality
ruler and take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy.

2. Environmental Factors:

• Air Currents: Uncontrolled air currents can disturb the

equilibrium position of the charged balls, leading to inaccurate
readings.
o Mitigation: Conduct the experiment in a closed, draft-free
room or use a protective enclosure around the setup.
• Humidity and Temperature: Variations in humidity and
temperature can affect the charge on the styrofoam balls and the
behavior of the electrostatic force.
o Mitigation: Perform the experiment in a climate-controlled
environment to maintain consistent conditions.

3. Inconsistent Charging:
24
 • Variability in Rubbing: Inconsistent rubbing techniques or
materials can result in unequal charges on the styrofoam balls.
o Mitigation: Standardize the rubbing process by using the
same material, applying the same pressure, and rubbing for
the same duration for both balls.
• Handling of Charged Balls: Touching the charged balls with bare
hands can cause charge leakage and inconsistency.
o Mitigation: Use insulating gloves and handle the balls with
care to avoid unintentional discharge.

4. Assumptions in Theory:

• Uniform Charge Distribution: The assumption that the charge is

uniformly distributed on the surface of the styrofoam balls may not
be accurate.
o Mitigation: Use homogeneous materials and ensure uniform
charging techniques. Consider the shape and surface
properties of the balls.
• Point Charge Approximation: Treating the styrofoam balls as
point charges in Coulomb’s Law can introduce errors if the balls
are not sufficiently small.
o Mitigation: Ensure that the distance between the balls is large
compared to their size, validating the point charge
approximation.

5. Instrument Calibration:

• Calibration Errors: Instruments like balances, protractors, and

rulers may have calibration errors affecting the accuracy of
measurements.
o Mitigation: Regularly calibrate instruments before and during
the experiment to maintain accuracy.

6. External Electric Fields:

25
 • Electromagnetic Interference: Nearby electronic devices or other
sources of electric fields can interfere with the experiment.
o Mitigation: Conduct the experiment in an environment free
from external electric fields or use a Faraday cage to shield
the setup.

7. Human Error:

• Reading and Recording Errors: Errors in reading instruments or

recording data can lead to inaccuracies in the results.
o Mitigation: Double-check readings and record data carefully.
Use digital instruments where possible to reduce reading
errors.

8. Physical Condition of Materials:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, the styrofoam balls or insulating

threads may degrade, affecting their properties and the
experiment's outcome.
o Mitigation: Regularly inspect and replace worn materials to
ensure consistent results.

By recognizing these potential sources of error and implementing

strategies to mitigate them, the accuracy and reliability of the experiment
can be significantly improved. A thorough understanding of these errors
also aids in better interpretation of the results and refinement of the
experimental methodology.

26
 BIBLIOGRAPHY
• HyperPhysics. (n.d.). Coulomb's Law. Retrieved from
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electric/elefor.html

• Khan Academy. (n.d.). Electric Charge and Coulomb's Law.

Retrieved from
https://www.khanacademy.org/science/physics/electric-charge-
electric-force-and-voltage

• NCERT

• TEACHERS

• S.L ARORA

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