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

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

Step-by-step explanation:

Given data

Electrical Field E = 4 ×
`10^(6)`
`(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.