Can Homework Help Calculate the Electric Field from Two Point Charges?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the electric field generated by two point charges, specifically using the values ##q_1=9\mu C## and ##q_2=-1\mu C##. It highlights the importance of recognizing that the electric field is a vector quantity, which can lead to miscalculations if not properly accounted for. A common mistake noted is concluding that the electric field is zero when, in fact, the vector nature of the field must be considered to determine the correct resultant field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector quantities in physics
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's Law
  • Basic knowledge of electric fields and forces
  • Ability to perform vector addition
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector addition in physics to better understand electric fields
  • Review Coulomb's Law and its application to point charges
  • Explore the concept of superposition in electric fields
  • Learn about electric field lines and their representation
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Students in physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and anyone interested in understanding electric fields and their calculations.

deGallo
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Homework Statement
I am having trouble solving this question related to electric field.
Relevant Equations
I used k(q1/a^2 +q2/b^2) a=4.24 b=4 q1=1.6e-6 q2=2.4e-6
The answer I got is 2149 N/C (wrong)
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Hint: Electric field is a vector quantity.
 
To illustrate @TSny's point, if the charges had been ##q_1=9\mu C, q_2=-1\mu C##, your calculation would have said the field is zero.
 

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