Similar to how matter and momentum are conserved, the net charge of an isolated system will also remain constant. This picture shows two spheres with a cord between them. This is meant to serve as a model of a system involving metal spheres. If the sphere on the left has a charge of +4 C and the one on the right has one of -2 C, the electric force would be 8 N attractive since they are unlike charges. The total charge of the system is 2 C, the sum of 4 and -2. If a wire connected them, each of their charges would become the same. Since the total charge is 2 C, each would have 1 C for its charge. As a result, the force of the spheres would be 1 N repulsive since the charges are the alike.
Cool! Just like we did in the P.A! Good to see your explanation of the problem and the different charges too. :D
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