Three identical metallic conducting spheres carry the following charges: q = + 3.8 μC, q = - 2.6 μC, and q = - 8.8 μC. The spheres that carry the charges q and q are brought into contact. Then they are separated. After that, one of those two spheres is brought into contact with the third sphere that carries the charge q. What is the final charge on the third sphere?

-4.1μC is the final charge on the third sphere

Explanation:

From the given data, q1 and q2 are brought into contact as they are both conductors, as such there will be evenly distribution of charges.

a) charge on each sphere (Q) = q1 + q2 / 2

= + 3.8 μC + ( - 2.6 μC) / 2 = 1.2μC/2 = 0.6μC

b) Now, one of those two spheres is brought into contact with the third sphere; Q is brought into contact with q3 = Q + q3 / 2

= 0.6μC - 8.8 μC / 2 = - 8.2 μC/2

= - 4.1μC is the final charge on the third sphere.