Charge & E-Field: Sum of Vectors of 3 different charge

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the vector sum of forces exerted on a positively charged particle (particle 3) placed on the y-axis due to two other particles: a positively charged particle (particle 1) on the positive x-axis and a negatively charged particle (particle 2) on the negative x-axis. The conclusion drawn is that the resultant force vector acting on particle 3 is directed along the y-axis. Participants emphasize the importance of drawing a free body diagram and utilizing symmetry to analyze the forces from both charge 1 and charge 2 effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law
  • Knowledge of vector addition in physics
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
  • Basic concepts of electric fields and charge interactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Coulomb's Law and its applications in electrostatics
  • Learn about vector addition techniques in physics
  • Explore the concept of electric field lines and their implications
  • Practice drawing free body diagrams for various charge configurations
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding electrostatic forces and vector analysis in charge interactions.

Mikeez
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A positively charged particle is placed along the positive x-axis and a particle carrying a negative charge of equal magnitude is placed at equal distance from the origin along the negative x axis. A third particle carrying a positive charge is placed on the y axis. The vector sum of the forces exerted by 1 and 2 on 3 is directed


https://galileo.johnabbott.qc.ca/enc/45/c7a5a185e640153d9d3b6aade2024fb0f4c0c7f8110628cbf8b82d4fddf29e320b25914c8ce9ee43713319c4971f5e652dcfce4b4a98fc9a80132c0edc8e61a2.jpg

  1. in the +x direction.
  2. in the -x direction.
  3. along the y axis.
  4. toward particle 1.
  5. along another direction.

I tried: 1. in the +x direction. and 3. along the y axis.
 
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Draw a free body diagram and use symmetry. Consider the force vectors from charge1 and charge2 one at a time, and add them together as per usual. Note the similarities in the forces exerted on charge3 by charge2 and charge1.
 

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