The correct answer to the question is:
b. polarization.
Explanation:
1. When an uncharged object is brought near a charged object, the charged object can induce a separation of charges within the uncharged object. This phenomenon is known as polarization.
2. In polarization, the charged object's electric field causes the electrons within the uncharged object to move slightly, creating an imbalance of charges within the uncharged object.
3. This induced charge separation results in the uncharged object being attracted to the charged object due to the interaction of the electric fields between the two objects.
Therefore, uncharged objects can be attracted by a charged object through the process of polarization, where the uncharged object acquires a temporary surface charge in the presence of the charged object's electric field.
