Easy electro charge question, calculation error?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a homework problem involving two point charges with a total charge of +11μC, separated by 2.9 cm, experiencing a force of 194 N. The user attempted to solve for the individual charges using the equation F = KqQ/r^2 but arrived at incorrect values. A key point raised is the oversight of units, as the charges should be expressed in microcoulombs rather than coulombs. This miscalculation likely contributed to the erroneous results obtained. Proper attention to units is crucial for accurate calculations in electrostatics.
Paulkaryote
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Homework Statement



The sum of two point charges is + 11μC. When they are 2.9 cm apart, each experiences a force of 194 N. Find the charges given that the force is:
(a)Repulsive
(b)Attractive
(In microNewtons)

Homework Equations


F = KqQ/r^2
q + Q = Net charge

The Attempt at a Solution


I confirmed this with my friend and he got the same answer as me, so maybe we are both making the same mistake.

q + Q = 11 => q = 11 - Q
F = kq(11-Q)/r^2 => 194 = (9x10^9)(11-Q)Q/(0.029)^2
After solving and simplifying the quadratic I got Q = 11 and 1.6*10^-12 which is wrong.
 
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Paulkaryote said:

Homework Statement



The sum of two point charges is + 11μC. When they are 2.9 cm apart, each experiences a force of 194 N. Find the charges given that the force is:
(a)Repulsive
(b)Attractive
(In microNewtons)

Homework Equations


F = KqQ/r^2
q + Q = Net charge

The Attempt at a Solution


I confirmed this with my friend and he got the same answer as me, so maybe we are both making the same mistake.

q + Q = 11 => q = 11 - Q
F = kq(11-Q)/r^2 => 194 = (9x10^9)(11-Q)Q/(0.029)^2
After solving and simplifying the quadratic I got Q = 11 and 1.6*10^-12 which is wrong.

Welcome to PF, Paulkaryote.

What happened to the units attached to the charge? They were not Coulombs, but microcoulombs.
 
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