Verifying Diagram of +4uC and -16uC Charges Separated by 3.0m

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the arrangement of two point charges, -16uC and +4uC, separated by a distance of 3.0m, and the identification of a point where the electric field is zero. Participants are examining the correctness of a diagram representing the electric fields generated by these charges.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the accuracy of the initial diagram and the representation of electric fields. They explore the implications of placing a negative charge in the vicinity of the two charges and discuss the directions of forces and fields involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants revising their diagrams and considering different placements for the point where the electric field is zero. There is an ongoing exploration of the conditions under which the forces from the two charges might cancel out, with no clear consensus reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of charge placement and the nature of electric fields, while also grappling with the concept that the point where the electric field is zero does not necessarily have to be located between the two charges.

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I have two charges, one is -16uC and the other +4uC. They are separated by 3.0m. I have to find the point in which the electric field is = 0 .

Is my diagram here correct? (I mean are the lengths of the arrows correct with respect to magnitude of attraction between the two)

-16uC -->E=0<----------- +4uC.
<------------------->
3.0m
 
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if the electric field at point r is zero than a point charge placed at point r will experience no force. Now, if we look at your problem. Suppose we place a negative charge somewhere in between the two particles. How will it interract with the other two? (Pay close attention to the direction of the force and electric field)
 
ok...
Maybe like this:

-16uC ---- (-C) ---> --- <----- +4uC.

Repel away from -16 and go towards +4.
 
So is something wrong with my first diagram?
-16uC -->E=0<----------- +4uC. ?

or maybe it should be

-16uC ------------->E=0<-- +4uC. I think the first one looks more correct.
 
Yes, exactly. If the charge is placed in between the two particles, it will be repelled by one and attracted by the other. Therefore, both of the two particles will force it in the same direction. If that is true, how is it possible for the forces to cancel out?

I don't believe either of the two are correct.
 
Last effort lol. Is this right?

-16uC <-------------E=0--> +4uC.
 
Wait a min, it doesn't have to between the two...

So wait, it could be

<---------------------
-16uC ___________________+4uC---->d where (E=0)
?
 
Now that's better, youre right, it doesn't have to be between the two. Now which side would it have to be on?
 
The right side lol! I should make the electric fields equal as in E=k(q)/d^2.
 

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