Which of the following best describes induction?

Induction is a process that involves the redistribution of electric charges in an object due to the influence of a nearby charged object, without any direct contact. When a charged object comes close to a neutral conductor, for instance, the electric field from the charged object influences the distribution of charges within the conductor.

This results in the electrons in the conductor either moving closer to or further away from the charged object, creating a polarized distribution of charge within the conductor. Although the total charge remains the same, the spatial arrangement of charges changes, leading to one side of the conductor becoming positively charged and the opposite side becoming negatively charged. This phenomenon explains why an uncharged object can exhibit behavior similar to a charged object when influenced by an external electric field.

The other options do not accurately describe induction. Direct contact to transfer charge involves a different mechanism called conduction. Charge dissipation into the ground usually pertains to grounding, and permanent alteration of charge distribution suggests a lasting change that does not align with the temporary nature of induction. Therefore, the option that best describes induction as a process is indeed the redistribution of charge due to nearby influence.