Question

Assume charge builds up on the cloud and on the ground until a uniform electric field of 4.00 ✕ 106 N/C throughout the space between them makes the air break down and conduct electricity as a lightning bolt. What is the maximum charge the cloud can hold?

Answer 1

Answer:

The value of the maximum charge the cloud can hold  Q = 177.08 coulomb

Explanation:

Given data

Electrical Field E = 4 × $10^{6}$ $\frac{N}{C}$

the maximum charge the cloud can hold is given by

Q = E A x ---- (1)

where A = area  = 5 × $10^{6}$

x = electrical Permittivity of air = 8.854 × $10^{-12}$

Q = (4 × $10^{6}$ ) (5 × $10^{6}$ ) ( 8.854 × $10^{-12}$ )

Q = 177.08 coulomb

This is the value of the maximum charge the cloud can hold.