Charge on the surface of conductors and electrostatic induction

Charge is distributed only on the surface of conductors. The distribution of this charge can be influenced by electrostatic induction.

We have a metal sphere and two hemispheres with a slightly larger diameter at our disposal. If we charge the inner sphere and then surround it with the hemispheres so that they touch the inner sphere, the inner sphere discharges completely and transfers its charge uniformly to the outer hemispheres.

If we join the neutral hemispheres together and then place a positively charged sphere near one of the hemispheres, electrostatic induction causes a negative charge to be induced on the closer hemisphere and a positive charge on the more distant hemisphere. If we now separate these hemispheres, the charge can no longer be neutralised and remains present even after the original charged sphere is moved away.

Leybold manual: P3.1.5.2 Electrostatic induction with the hemispheres after Cavendish

Apparatus for demonstrating charge on the surface of conductors and electrostatic induction.