AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Conservation of Electric Charge and the Process of Charging
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
A balloon is rubbed on hair, and the balloon gains a net negative charge. From where did this charge originate?
Based on the conservation of charge, the net negative charge was transferred to the balloon (the system) from its surroundings (the hair).
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A balloon is rubbed on hair, and the balloon gains a net negative charge. From where did this charge originate?
Based on the conservation of charge, the net negative charge was transferred to the balloon (the system) from its surroundings (the hair).
If a system's net charge decreases, what must have occurred between the system and its surroundings?
A transfer of charge must have occurred from the system to its surroundings.
What is the relationship between a system, its surroundings, and any change in its net charge?
Any change to a system's net charge is exclusively caused by a transfer of charge between that system and its surroundings.
Define 'charge transfer' in the context of a system's net charge.
Charge transfer is the movement of charge between a system and its surroundings, and it is the sole cause of any change to the system's net charge.
What can cause the charge distribution of a system to change, even if its net charge remains the same?
The charge distribution of a system can change in response to the presence of, or changes in, the net charge or charge distribution of other systems.
What is the fundamental principle used to describe the behavior of charge in a system?
The behavior of a system is described using the principle of conservation of charge.
What is the purpose of electrically connecting a charged system to the Earth?
This process, known as grounding, allows for the transfer of charge between the system and the much larger, neutral Earth.
What is grounding?
Grounding is the process of electrically connecting a charged system to a much larger and approximately neutral system, such as the Earth.
How does the presence of an external charged object affect another system?
The net charge or charge distribution of a system can change in response to the presence of another system's net charge.
According to the principle of conservation of charge, how can a system's net charge be altered?
Any change to a system's net charge is due to a transfer of charge between the system and its surroundings.