Magnitude of Electric field at point P

AI Thread Summary
To find the magnitude of the electric field at point P due to a charge Q of 80nC, the correct formula for electric field, EF = k*Q/R^2, should be used instead of the force equation. The electric field must be calculated for each charge affecting point P, considering their respective distances and directions. The resulting electric fields are vector quantities, requiring vector addition to determine the total electric field at point P. It's important to account for the direction of each electric field when performing the calculations. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
sambooby123
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Homework Statement


If Q=80nC, a=3.0m , and b=4.0m in the figure, what is the magnitude of the electric field at point P?

phyprob.jpg



Homework Equations


EF=k*Q1*Q2 / R^2



The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure how to go about solving this problem. Do I use the above equation? I don't have the answer to the problem so I'm kinda in the dark about this. Thanks.

My answer is 46.78
 
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Welcome to PF, Sambooby.
That formula you have is for force. You need to look up the one for electric field. You will have to use it three times to find the E field at P due to each of the charges. These fields will be in different directions, so you will have to add the vectors to find their total.
 
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