Electric Charges Homework: Find q from Tmax & Fc2

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the magnitude of electric charges on a model airplane flying in a horizontal circle. The kinetic energy of the plane without charges is 50 J, while with charges, it increases to 51.5 J. Using the equations T_max = 2*KE_1/r and F = F_c2 - T_max, participants derive that the maximum tension and centripetal force are critical to solving for the charge q. The final formula presented is q = √(Fr²/k), where k is the electrostatic constant.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and its relation to circular motion
  • Familiarity with the concepts of tension and centripetal force
  • Knowledge of electrostatics, specifically Coulomb's law
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations and solve for variables
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of centripetal force in circular motion
  • Study Coulomb's law and its applications in electric charge interactions
  • Learn about the electrostatic constant k and its significance in calculations
  • Explore energy conservation principles in systems involving electric charges
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and mechanics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of charge interactions in circular motion.

CombatVetUSMC
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Homework Statement


An electrically neutral model airplane is flying in a horizontal circle on a 2.5-m guideline, which is nearly parallel to the ground. The line breaks when the kinetic energy of the plane is 50 J. Reconsider the same situation, except that now there is a point charge of +q on the plane and a point charge of -q at the other end of the guideline. In this case, the line breaks when the kinetic energy of the plane is 51.5 J. Find the magnitude of the charges.


Homework Equations


T[itex]_{}max[/itex] = 2*KE[itex]_{}1[/itex]/r
F= F[itex]_{}c2[/itex] - T[itex]_{}max[/itex]
q=√Fr[itex]^{}2[/itex]/k


The Attempt at a Solution


T[itex]_{}max[/itex]= 2(50J)/2.5m= 40J/m

not sure how to get F[itex]_{}c2[/itex]
 
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Hi CombatVetUSMC! Welcome to PF! :smile:
CombatVetUSMC said:
T[itex]_{}max[/itex] = 2*KE[itex]_{}1[/itex]/r
F= F[itex]_{}c2[/itex] - T[itex]_{}max[/itex]
q=√Fr[itex]^{}2[/itex]/k

What about KE2 ?

50/r = KE1/r = T

51.5/r = KE2/r = T + Fq :wink:
 

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