What process involves redistributing the electrical charge of an object by the influence of nearby charges?

The process that involves redistributing the electrical charge of an object due to the influence of nearby charges is known as induction. This phenomenon occurs when a charged object is brought close to a neutral object, causing the electrons in the neutral object to rearrange themselves in response to the electric field of the charged object. As a result, one side of the neutral object becomes negatively charged while the other side becomes positively charged. This temporary separation of charge can lead to various effects, such as the attraction between the two objects, despite the neutral object having no initial net charge.

Induction is significant in various applications, including electrostatic generators and capacitors. It highlights the fundamental principle that electric charges can influence each other even without direct contact.

In contrast, conduction refers to the transfer of electric charge through direct contact between materials. Polarization is a process that can occur but specifically refers to the alignment of charges within a material when exposed to an electric field, rather than the redistribution of charges on an adjacent object. Insulation, on the other hand, relates to materials that do not conduct electricity well and would not aid in the redistribution of charges.