Which of the following instruments can be used to compare the relative magnitudes of charges on two given bodies?
Answer Details
The instrument that can be used to compare the relative magnitudes of charges on two given bodies is the gold-leaf electroscope.
The gold-leaf electroscope works by using two thin gold leaves suspended from a metal rod within a glass container. When a charged object is brought near the metal rod, the charges induce a separation of charges in the gold leaves, causing them to repel each other and move apart. The amount of separation of the leaves is proportional to the magnitude of the charge on the object.
To compare the charges on two bodies, you would first bring one body near the metal rod and observe the amount of separation of the leaves. Then, you would discharge the electroscope by touching the metal rod with your hand, and repeat the process with the other body. By comparing the amount of separation of the leaves in each case, you can determine which body has the greater charge.
The other options listed are not directly used to compare charges on two bodies. The electrophorous is used to generate a static charge on an object, the ebonite rod can be charged by rubbing it with fur or silk, the proof plane is used to transfer charge to the gold-leaf electroscope, and the capacitor is used to store electrical charge.