{"knowledge_schema": {"broad_category": "Physics \u2192 Electrostatics \u2192 Potential Energy of Charge Distributions", "refinement": "This problem involves calculating the potential energy of a system consisting of a point charge and a grounded conducting sphere, taking into account the effects of induced charges on the sphere.", "specific_scope": "The focus is on determining the net potential energy when a charge is placed at a distance from the center of a grounded conducting sphere, using the principles of electrostatics and the method of images.", "goal": "Calculate the potential energy of the system to understand the interaction between the point charge and the conducting sphere."}, "summary": "This problem is rooted in electrostatics, specifically in calculating the potential energy of a system involving a point charge and a grounded conducting sphere. The task requires applying the method of images to account for the induced charges on the sphere due to the external charge. The goal is to find the net potential energy of the system, which is given by the formula U=- (1/2) *kq^2 R/(d^2 -R^2). Understanding this concept helps in grasping the interactions between charges and conductors in electrostatic scenarios."}