How Much Work Is Needed to Separate Three Charges Infinitely?

[SubluxT7]

I have done this problem a few ways and can't seem to get the right answer. Any ideas?

Figure 20-23 shows three charges at the corners of a rectangle of length x = 0.55 m and height y = 0.33 m. How much work must be done to move the three charges infinitely far from one another?

Point charges are as follows: -3.3 microcoulombs in the bottom left, -6.1 microcoulombs in the top left, and 2.7 microcoulombs in the top right. Any ideas, as I've done this problem 4 times now and can't get the right answer?

Sandy:yuck:

 

[Jhero]

Hi Sandy,

Thank you for reaching out with your question. It sounds like you've put a lot of effort into solving this problem, but are still having trouble getting the right answer. I understand the frustration of not being able to solve a problem, but don't worry, we can work through this together.

First, let's make sure we have all the necessary information. From the given information, we know the lengths of the rectangle (x = 0.55 m) and its height (y = 0.33 m). We also know the charges at each corner (bottom left: -3.3 microcoulombs, top left: -6.1 microcoulombs, top right: 2.7 microcoulombs). Do we have any other information that might be relevant to solving this problem?

Next, let's think about what the question is asking us to find: the work required to move the charges infinitely far from one another. This means we need to calculate the potential energy of the system at its initial state (with the charges at the corners of the rectangle) and at its final state (with the charges infinitely far from each other). Can you think of a formula that relates potential energy to charges and distance?

Additionally, we need to consider the direction of the work being done. Are the charges being repelled or attracted to each other? This will affect the sign of our final answer.

I would suggest reviewing your calculations and double checking your units to make sure they are consistent. Also, try breaking the problem down into smaller steps and solving each step individually before putting them all together.

If you're still having trouble, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can catch a mistake that we might have overlooked. Good luck!