Question

The earth has a vertical electric field at the surface, pointing down, that averages 100 N/C. This field is maintained by various atmospheric processes, including lightning. What is the excess charge on the surface of the earth?

Answer 1

Answer:

The excess charge on earth's surface was calculated to be 4.56 × 10⁵ C

Explanation:

Using the formula for an electric field;

E = kQ/r²

k = 1/(4πε₀) = 8.99 × 10⁹ Nm²/C²

E = 100N/C

r = radius of the earth = 6400 km = 6400000m

Q = Er²/k = 100 × (6400000)²/(8.99 × 10⁹)

Q = 455617.4 C = 4.56 × 10⁵ C

Hope this helps!!!