Estimating the Ratio of theta1 & theta2: Two Spheres with Unequal Charges

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around two charged spheres, S1 and S2, which are suspended and experience repulsive forces due to their charges. The original poster seeks to estimate the ratio of the angles theta1 and theta2 formed by the strings of the spheres with the vertical, questioning the influence of their differing charges on this ratio.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the angles and the charges of the spheres, questioning how the equal lengths of the strings and the same mass influence the angles. There is also inquiry into the magnitudes of the forces acting between the spheres and how these relate to their charges.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants raising questions about the forces involved and the application of Coulomb's law and Newton's third law. Some guidance has been offered regarding the comparison of electric forces, indicating a productive exploration of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of the spheres having unequal charges and the constraints of the setup, such as the equal length of the strings and the positioning of the points from which they hang.

iknownth
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Two spheres S1 and S2 hang from light insulating strings of the same length from points P1 and P2 which are on the same level. S1 is of mass M and has charge Q. S2 is of mass M and has charge 2Q. Repulsion between S1 and S2 causes their strings to be inclined at angles of theta1 and theta2 to the vertical respectively. What is the estimated ratio of theta1/theta2?
The ans is 1.
Is it because P1 and P2 are on the same level and the two strings are of the same length?
But the charges of the two spheres are different. Shouldn't one of them be repelled further?
 
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What is the magnitude of the force from S1 to S2, and what is the magnitude of the force from S2 to S1?
 
The force from S2 to S1 should be double that of the force from S1 to S2 because S2 has charge 2Q??
 
Have another look at Coulomb's law and compare the 2 electric forces.
Also think about Newton's 3rd law.
 

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