Calculating Electrostatic Force on a Charge in a Compass

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the net electrostatic force on a central charge of -4.10 C within a compass setup, where two additional charges are positioned at the north and east points of the circle. Participants are prompted to identify relevant equations for electrostatic force, such as Coulomb's law, to solve for both the magnitude and direction of the forces acting on the central charge. The problem requires considering the interactions between the central charge and the two peripheral charges, taking into account their magnitudes and signs. Guidance is sought for the calculations involved in determining the resultant force. The conversation emphasizes applying fundamental physics principles to solve the electrostatic force problem.
mersad
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Homework Statement



A charge of -4.10 C is fixed at the center of a compass. Two additional charges are fixed on the circle of the compass (radius = 0.137 m). The charges on the circle are -3.58 C at the position due north and +6.79 C at the position due east. What is (a) the magnitude and (b) direction of the net electrostatic force acting on the charge at the center? Specify the direction as an angle relative to due east.

i am having a hard time with this problem can somebody guide me through thx
 
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mersad said:

Homework Statement



A charge of -4.10 C is fixed at the center of a compass. Two additional charges are fixed on the circle of the compass (radius = 0.137 m). The charges on the circle are -3.58 C at the position due north and +6.79 C at the position due east. What is (a) the magnitude and (b) direction of the net electrostatic force acting on the charge at the center? Specify the direction as an angle relative to due east.

i am having a hard time with this problem can somebody guide me through thx

Welcome to PF.

What equations can you think of that might apply?
 

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