Simple point charge location problem

AI Thread Summary
At point P, which is equidistant from two charges +Q and -Q, a negative charge placed there will experience forces due to both charges. The positive charge +Q will attract the negative charge, while the negative charge -Q will repel it. The net force on the negative charge will have components that result in an upward direction, as both forces contribute to this effect. The discussion emphasizes understanding the forces at play rather than focusing solely on movement. Thus, the conclusion is that the net force will act directly upward.
kirby2
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Point P in the figure is equidistant from two point charges +Q/-Q of equal magnitude. If a negative point charge is placed at P without moving the original charges, the net electrical force the charges +Q/-Q will exert on it is?

figure: http://goo.gl/EAADC

ATTEMPT: i think P will move directly upward because the -Q charge will repel it in the x-axis and the +Q will attract it in the x so there is no x movement. However, since these forces are in linear, both of them do have an upward components as well. This is why i think the answer is "directly upward." Is this right?
 
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Yes, you are correct. But think in terms of forces, not 'movement'.
 

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