Question

which of the following is an application of electrostatic induction?
(A) electric generator.
(B) Van de Graff generator.
(C) Wimshurst machine.
(D) transformer.

Answer 1

Hint
In order to find the one that uses the application of electrostatic induction we have to understand the working principle of each one of the given options. Each of the above devices works on a different principle and under different law.

Complete step by step solution
Electrostatic induction is a procedure to originate or initiate static electricity in a material by guiding an electrically charged object which is near it. This gives rise to the electrical charges to be reassigned in the material, resulting in one side having a surplus of either positive or negative charges.
Van de Graff generator:
The Van de Graff generator consists of a mobile belt which is used to gather electric charge which is present on a caved metal globe which is placed on the tip of an enclosed column. This generates very large electric potentials. The Van de Graff generator uses the application of electrostatic induction.
Wimshurst machine:
The Wimshurst machine is used for producing high voltages. It has a unique structure with two large opposite-rotating discs setup in a vertical plane, with two crossed bars with metallic brushes, and a spark gap is established by two metal spheres. This machine is in affiliation to the class of electrostatic generators which are known as the influence machines. In this different electric charges due to electrostatic induction.
Therefore, the Van de Graff generator and Wimshurst machine uses the application of electrostatic induction.
Hence, the options (B) and (C) are the correct answers.

Note
The transformer is a device which operates under the principle of mutual induction which works under Faraday's law. The electric generator is a device which operates under the working principle of electromagnetic induction.