Charges in a Line Conceptual Question with picture

In summary, in this conversation, the discussion is about the forces on charge Q3 when placed between two fixed charges, Q1 and Q2, at a distance of 3R apart. The options provided are that the force on Q3 can be zero if it is positive, negative, or it can never be zero regardless of its charge. The relevant equation for calculating the force is F = kq1q2/r. The solution is not clear, as initially it was thought that the force could be zero if Q3 is positive, but then it was changed to say that the force will always exist, although it may be weaker. Further discussion and opinions are requested.
  • #1
PeachBanana
191
0

Homework Statement



Two balls, one with charge Q1 = +Q and the
other with charge Q2 = +2Q, are held fixed at a
separation d = 3R as shown.

See picture.

Another ball with (non-zero) charge Q3 is
introduced in between Q1 and Q2 at a
distance = R from Q1.

See right below first picture.

• Which of the following statements is correct?

1. The force on Q3 can be zero if
Q3 is positive
2. The force on Q3 can be zero if
Q3 is negative
3. The force on Q3 can never be
zero, no matter what the (nonzero)
charge Q3 is.

Homework Equations



F = kq1q2/r

The Attempt at a Solution



I initially said two but then changed my mind because the +2Q charge will always exert a force on Q3 (although it may not be as strong). What do you all think?
 

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  • #2
Find the net force in each case on charge Q3.
 

1. What is the concept of charges in a line?

The concept of charges in a line refers to the arrangement of electric charges along a straight line. This can occur in various situations, such as a charged wire or a line of charged particles. The charges in a line concept is important in understanding the behavior of electric fields and the distribution of charges.

2. How are charges in a line represented?

Charges in a line are typically represented by either positive or negative symbols, depending on the type of charge. Positive charges are indicated by a plus sign (+) and negative charges by a minus sign (-). These symbols are placed along a line to indicate the location and magnitude of the charges.

3. What is the effect of distance on charges in a line?

The effect of distance on charges in a line is described by Coulomb's law, which states that the force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of their magnitudes and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This means that as the distance between charges in a line increases, the force between them decreases.

4. How do charges in a line interact with each other?

Charges in a line interact with each other through the electric force, which can either attract or repel depending on the type of charges. Like charges repel each other, while opposite charges attract. This interaction is responsible for the behavior of electric fields and the movement of charges in a line.

5. What is the significance of charges in a line in real-life applications?

Charges in a line play a crucial role in many real-life applications, such as in power lines, electronic circuits, and particle accelerators. The understanding of how charges behave in a line helps in the design and functioning of these technologies. Additionally, the concept of charges in a line is also important in understanding natural phenomena, such as lightning and the Earth's magnetic field.

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