Question

The transformation of energy forms when using the Van de Graaff generator:

1) Consider again the energy transformations that occur when the charged dome gets grounded. Respond to a friend who says, “When the charged dome gets grounded, all of the electrical potential energy stored on the dome is transformed into electrical potential energy stored on the earth.” Show calculations and if energy has been transformed to other forms, suggest what form(s)the energy has taken.

Answer 1

earth behave as sink , hence charge on the dome start flowing through the wire or rod used to ground the system,

here energy is converted into potential energy, into heat energy as there will be a flow of current, in no conductor has zero resistance practically, and in some cases sometimes there is a spark observed because when we bring rod near to the dome,charges jump from dome to wire through air, creating a spark, and hence loss of energy is also observed here

E = q(Vg- Ve) + i^2r + energy in flash(if any)