Determining the magnitude of unknown charges

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the relative magnitudes of two charges, a positive charge +q1 and a negative charge -q2, based on their positions and the condition that the net electric field is zero at a specific point. The context is rooted in electrostatics and electric fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the charges and their distances from the point where the electric field is zero. There is uncertainty about how to derive the ratio of the charges from the distances and whether the constants in the electric field equation can be simplified.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the distances involved and are exploring the implications of these distances on the charge ratio. There is an ongoing discussion about the correct application of the electric field formula and the relationship between charge magnitudes and distances.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of the problem, including the need to find additional points where the electric potential is zero, which adds complexity to the discussion.

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Homework Statement



A positive charge +q1 is 3.00m to the left of a negative charge -q2. The net electric field is zero 1.00m to the right of the negative charge. Determine the relative magnitude of the charges in a ratio q1/q2

Homework Equations


E=kQ/r^2


The Attempt at a Solution


I set it so that kQ1/r1^2=kQ2/r2^2 but I'm not sure how to solve for the ratio? would the k's cancel out and it'd just be a ratio of the distances? Are the distances r1=4.00m and r2=1.00m?
 
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Your distances are correct.
Find Q1/Q2.
 
would the ratio just work out to be the ratio of the distances? so 4/1?
 
No. It should be square of the distances.
 
So q1= +16 and q2= -1 ? Also there's a part of the question that asks to locate two spots where the potential is zero, in relation to the negative charge, any ideas how to find it?
 
In between the charges you can get zero potential. Similarly out side the charges near the smaller charge you can get another spot where then potential is zero.
If x is the distance where the potential is zero, then
kq1/(d-x) - kq2/x = 0
 

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