A rectangle with Charges on Each Corner - Find Missing Charge?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the charge needed at the empty corner of a rectangle to ensure the net force at corner A points vertically, the horizontal forces from the existing charges must cancel out. With three charges of +8.45 μC already present, the focus shifts to the effects of these charges on corner A. The discussion emphasizes considering the electric fields generated by each charge rather than solely the forces. The horizontal field produced by the new charge at the fourth corner is crucial for achieving the desired vertical net force. Understanding the magnitudes and directions of the forces from the existing charges is essential for solving the problem.
NerdingOut
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Homework Statement


A charge is to be placed at the empty corner of a rectangle to make the net force at corner A point along the vertical direction. What charge (magnitude and algebraic sign) must be placed at the empty corner if the three charges have the same charge of +8.45 μC?

Homework Equations


F = kq1q1/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



because we know that the net force on A is going to be in the vertical direction we know this is the resultant. Therefore i know the horizontal forces must cancel out..but isn't there only one existing horizontal force coming from the charge at the bottom right corner?

F = (8.99x10^9)(8.45 x10^-6)^2/d^2 [/B]
 

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Hi nerd, and welcome to PF :-)

Show us your attempt and only then we are allowed to help. Why ? See the guidelines
 
Okay I added my attempt..but i seriously do not know where to go from this :(
 
Last edited:
NerdingOut said:
Okay I added my attempt..but i seriously do not know where to go from this :(
You don't have to worry about forces as such, just think about the fields.
Suppose you put a charge q at the fourth corner. What horizontal field will this give at A?
 
I don't see an attempt, and it certainly doesn't look like your own work. Tell me about the forces at A due to the other two yellow bulbs. Magnitude, direction ?
 
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