Calculate the magnitude and direction of the electric field intensity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric field intensity created by two point charges, one negative and one positive, at a specific point in space. The charges and their distances from the point of interest are provided, and participants are exploring how to determine both the magnitude and direction of the electric field at that point.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the superposition principle to find the electric field at point Y due to both charges. There is also a focus on the importance of the relative positions of the charges and point Y in determining the direction of the electric field.

Discussion Status

The discussion has seen various attempts to calculate the electric field intensity, with some participants providing numerical values and others questioning the assumptions regarding the location of point Y. While some calculations have been shared, there is no explicit consensus on the final answer or method.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted lack of clarity regarding the exact position of point Y relative to the charges, which is crucial for determining the direction of the electric field. This uncertainty may affect the calculations being discussed.

Inquiring_Mike
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Quick Physics Help...

X and Z represent point charges of -2.4 x 10^-3 C and +3.3 x 10^-2 C respectively. Calculate the magnitude and direction of the electric field intensity at point Y, 5.00 cm from X and 8.50 cm from Z (they all live in a line).

Can sumone help me?
 
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Apply the superposition principle i.e Electric field at point will be equal to electic field due to X + due to Z.
 
So does 4.974 x 10^10 look good?
 
you didn't tell about the location of point ,is it left of X or right of Z or in between which will decide mag+dir
 
X -----5.0------- Y----------8.5--------Z
 
direction will be towards YX and magnitude=9x10^9(2.4x10^-3/5x 10^-2+ 3.3 x 10^-2/ 8.5x10^-2
=3.92 x 10^9
 
Ah... It all makes sense now...
THanks for the help!
 

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