Basic physics, interactions between multiple electrons

In summary, when calculating the force on one of three electrons arranged in a triangle, only the forces colored in red and blue are considered, while the black force is ignored. This is because the black force does not affect the net force on the electron in question, unless the charges are free to move and their positions are changing over time.
  • #1
tja2468
3
0
I have always wondered about this particular problem, when three electrons are arranged in a triangle and the question was to calculate the force experienced by one of the electrons. My physics teacher taught us that we only care about the forces colored in red and blue, totally ignoring the black colored one. But then, wouldn't the black colored force affect the other two electrons and cause the magnitude and direction of the forces to deviate a little? I am aware that this is an extremely ideal model of electrons, and is unrealistic. Thanks in advance :smile:
 

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  • #2
When calculating the net force on charge 1, only forces on charge 1 count. The fact that charges 2 and 3 exert forces on each other has nothing to do with the forces they exert on charge 1.
 
  • #3
Thanks for your quick response, that was really helpful and cleared up my confusion :)
 
  • #4
the black line would be important if your charges were not fixed in place and free to move and you were interested in how the particles positions change in time. But you're probably not.
 

1. What is the basic definition of physics?

The basic definition of physics is the branch of science that deals with the study of matter, energy, and their interactions. It seeks to understand the fundamental laws and principles that govern the natural world.

2. What are the interactions between multiple electrons?

The interactions between multiple electrons are governed by the laws of electromagnetism, which describe how charged particles interact with each other. These interactions can result in attraction, repulsion, or the formation of bonds between atoms.

3. How do multiple electrons behave in an atom?

In an atom, multiple electrons orbit around the nucleus in specific energy levels. These electrons are subject to the forces of attraction from the positively charged nucleus and the repulsion from other electrons. The behavior of electrons in an atom is described by quantum mechanics.

4. How do multiple electrons contribute to the properties of materials?

The arrangement and behavior of multiple electrons in a material determine its physical and chemical properties. For example, the number and arrangement of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom determine its reactivity and ability to form bonds with other atoms.

5. What are the implications of multiple electrons on electrical conductivity?

The movement of electrons is what allows materials to conduct electricity. In materials with multiple free electrons, such as metals, there is a high degree of electrical conductivity. However, in materials with tightly bound electrons, such as insulators, there is low electrical conductivity.

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