The 30-Second Exam Hall Shortcut: ⚡ Potential Equality Shortcut: σ ∝ 1/R
For any spherical conductor at potential V, . Therefore, surface charge density is inversely proportional to radius: ! Instant 5-second answer matching Option (2)!
Step-by-Step Conceptual & Mathematical Derivation
Condition for Electrostatic Equilibrium of Connected Spheres
When two conducting spheres of radii and are joined by a thin conducting wire, free electrons flow between them until they reach an identical electrostatic potential :
Relating Charge to Surface Charge Density
Surface charge density is defined as the total charge per unit spherical surface area :
Computing the Ratio of Surface Charge Densities
Substitute the charge ratio into the density ratio:
🔍 View 360° Option Elimination Analysis & NTA Trap Alert ▼
This represents the ratio of charges (), not the ratio of surface charge densities ().
Exact mathematical outcome derived from .
Square-root dependence is unphysical for potential-charge relationships.
This would occur if the spheres had identical charges (), which is false for connected conductors of unequal radii.
Students frequently assume connecting two spheres distributes charge equally (). Connected conductors always equalize electric POTENTIAL (), which means the smaller sphere has higher surface charge density (sharper curvature = greater ).