On the equilibrium shape of a heavily charged drop suspended in a weak electrostatic field

The object of investigation is the shape of a heavily charged drop placed in a weak electrostatic field. Calculations were carried out in the fourth order of smallness in the eccentricity, through which the steady-state deformation of the drop is measured. It is shown that the equilibrium shape of such a drop can be approximated by a prolate spheroid. This shape is due to the self-charge of the drop rather than to the external field, which is very weak and merely specifies a preferred direction. In an electrostatic suspension, where such a situation may take place, the deformation-related measurement inaccuracy of the critical charge can be totally eliminated if fine droplets are used.