Correct Option
The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The interaction between objects due to electric charge is governed by the fundamental laws of electrostatics. These laws dictate how charged bodies interact with one another (attraction or repulsion) and how charged bodies interact with neutral (uncharged) bodies through the phenomenon of electrostatic induction.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1: Incorrect
A charged balloon does not necessarily attract another charged balloon. The nature of the interaction depends on the type of charge on each balloon. According to the fundamental law of electrostatics, like charges repel and unlike charges attract. For example, two balloons rubbed with the same material (acquiring the same charge) will repel each other. Therefore, the statement is not universally true.
- Statement 2: Correct
A charged balloon attracts an uncharged balloon due to electrostatic induction (polarization). When a charged object is brought near an uncharged insulator (like a balloon), it induces an opposite charge on the surface of the uncharged object facing it. This induced opposite charge creates a net attractive force.
- Statement 3: Correct
This is the reciprocal of Statement 2. If a charged balloon exerts an attractive force on an uncharged balloon, the uncharged balloon exerts an equal and opposite attractive force on the charged balloon, in accordance with Newton's Third Law of Motion. Thus, an uncharged balloon is attracted by a charged balloon.
Key Takeaway
Repulsion is the sure test of electrification because attraction can occur between two oppositely charged bodies or between a charged body and a neutral body (due to induction). Repulsion occurs only between two bodies carrying like charges.