Coulombs Law Problem: Find Point Along Y-Axis for Zero Electric Field

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on solving a Coulomb's Law problem involving two negative charges: -4.1 microC at the origin and -2.98 microC at 2.11519 m along the y-axis. The objective is to determine the point along the y-axis where the electric field is zero. The relevant equations include E = F/q and F = kQq/r², with the Coulomb constant k valued at 8.99 x 10^0. The initial attempt at solving the equation yielded incorrect results, indicating the need for a clearer understanding of electric field behavior between and beyond the charges.

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Homework Statement



A charge of -4.1 microC is located at the origin and a charge of -2.98microC is located along the y-axis at 2.11519 m.
The value of the Coulomb constant is 8.99x10^0.
At what point along the y-axis is the electric field zero? Answer in units of meters.



Homework Equations



E= F/q

F=kQq/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



kq/x^2 = Q/(2.11519-x)^2

using this, and doing the math i got 1886 something...very incorrect.. Please help:confused:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
1. Both charges produce an electric field.
2. What will happen to a test charge placed at a position where the electric field is zero?
3. You should first intuit where the field will be zero. I.E. is it along the negative y axis, between the charges, or past the second charge along the y axis.
Hope that helps.
 

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