During a lightning flash, there exists a potential difference of V cloud - V gro

Question

During a lightning flash, there exists a potential difference ofVcloud - Vground = 2.2 x109 V between a cloud and the ground. As a result, acharge of -16 C is transferred from the ground to the cloud.

(a) How much workWground–cloud is done on the charge bythe electric force?

(b) If the work done by the electric force wereused to accelerate a 1100-kg automobile from rest, what would beits final speed?

(c) If the work done by the electric force wereconverted into heat, how many kilograms of water at 0 °C couldbe heated to 100 °C?

Wground–cloud = + 35200000000 J

vf = 8000 m/s

m = kg

Explanation / Answer

   a.   Workdone   W   =   charge(Q) * potential difference (V)                Wground-cloud   =   -16 C *(Vground   -   Vcloud)                                        =   -16 * ( - 2.2 * 109)                                        =   3.52* 1010   J    b.   Workdone   =   k.e. of automobile               3.52* 1010   =   (1/2) * m *v2                0.5* 1100 * v2   =   3.52 *1010                v   =   (3.52* 1010 / 550)                      =   8000   m/s    c.   Heatenergy   =   work done          m * c *T   =   3.52 *1010          m * 4.2* 103 * (100 -0)   =   3.52 * 1010       mass of waterheated   m   =   3.52* 108 / 4.2 * 103                                                    =   8.38* 104   kg                                                    =   8.38* 104   kg            

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse D
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.