Electric charge accumulation on satellites in space is a significant problem that must be designed for. It is caused by

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Electric Charge Accumulation On Satellites In Space Is A Significant Problem That Must Be Designed For It Is Caused By 1 (71.13 KiB) Viewed 12 times

Electric charge accumulation on satellites in space is a significant problem that must be designed for. It is caused by various space phenomena (plasmas and UV light from the Sun) and can lead to a net positive or net negative charge on the various parts of a satellite. (a) The electronics inside communications satellites is very sensitive to electric fields. To protect the electronics these satellites are generally designed with a continuous conductive shell on the outside. Explain how this design protects the electronics. [2 marks] 30cm o electronics. Package 10cm 10cm An ENGG7920 student designs a micro-satellite (for a project to look at charging phenomena!) that consists of two 10 cm diameter metal spheres (Sphere 1 and Sphere 2) separated and insulated with 30 cm between their centres. 10 days after launch Sphere 1 has accumulated a charge of +1.2 x 10 C, while Sphere 2 has -2.0 x 10° C. (b) Draw and label a diagram that illustrates the shape of the electric field and equipotentials around the two spheres. [3 marks] (c) What is the mechanical force on the structure keeping the spheres in place? [2 marks] A small package of electronics sits at the midpoint between the two spheres. (d) What is the net electric field (strength and direction) experienced by the electronics package due to the charged spheres? [3 marks] (e) What is the electric potential at this point? [1 mark] The electronics package contains a mechanism that can electrically connect the two spheres. (f) Using a sequence of diagrams and text, explain what happens to the electric field around the spheres when they are electrically connected. [4 marks] Later, as the satellite passes over Earth's magnetic south pole, the net charge on the satellite (now with the spheres connected) is +2.0 x 10 C, while the local magnetic field is 50 µT, pointing straight up from Earth's surface. Assume the satellite is in a circular orbit around Earth, with an orbital velocity of 7.8 km/s parallel to the surface. (g) Draw a diagram and explain the situation, then calculate the force (magnitude and direction) experienced by the satellite due to Earth's magnetic field at this point? [5 marks]