Three identical metal plates with large equal surface areas are kept parallel to each other as shown in figure. The leftmost plate is given a charge -q, the rightmost a charge 2q and the middle one remains neutral. Find the charge appearing on the outer surface of the leftmost plate.

Question

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: In electrostatic equilibrium, E = 0 inside a conductor and the conductor is an equipotential. Surface charges adjust so the boundary condition field just outside·𝐧 = σ/ε₀ is satisfied. Step 2: For connected conductors set their potentials equal; for sheets use electrostatic pressure p = ε₀E²/2 when appropriate. Step 3: Apply charge conservation and the given geometry. Final: Option C. In this specific setup, apply the calculation to: Three identical metal plates with large equal surfac…