Calculating Net Electrostatic Force in a Square Configuration

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To calculate the net electrostatic force in a square configuration with four charges (two positive and two negative), the forces acting on each charge must be analyzed. The net force on any charge is directed toward the center of the square, indicating a balance of forces. The formula f = kQq/d^2 is used to determine the force between charges, with the distance d being half the diagonal of the square. The attractive force can be calculated as root(2)kq^2/d^2, but further steps are needed to resolve the components and find the net force. The discussion highlights the need for guidance in breaking down the problem into manageable parts.
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Homework Statement


There are four charges, each with a magnitude of 2.1 µC. Two are positive and two are negative. The charges are fixed to the corners of a 0.25 m square, one to a corner, in such a way that the net force on any charge is directed toward the center of the square. Find the magnitude of the net electrostatic force experienced by any charge.



Homework Equations



f=kQq/d^2

The Attempt at a Solution


can you start me off on this prob? i honestly don't know how to do it.
 
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You could get the x and y component of each charge on the centre, that's a start
 
ok. so i get the attractive force as root(2)kq^2/d^2
and after that I am stuck
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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