Electric field - Finding the charges

In summary: The electron experiences a net force due to the two charges. Since the electron is initially accelerating upwards, the net force must also be pointing upwards. We can use the equations E=k(q/r^2) and F=k(q/r^2) to calculate the magnitudes of the electric and gravitational forces, respectively, and then use the fact that they must be equal to find the values of q1 and q2. In summary, for an electron released at a point equidistant from two point charges held 4.00cm apart, with an initial acceleration of 8.05×10^18m/s^2 directly upward, the charges must have values of q1 = 5.97x10^-6 C and q
  • #1
rm_girl
15
0

Homework Statement


Two point charges q1 and q2 are held 4.00cm apart. An electron released at a point that is equidistant from both charges, undergoes an initial acceleration of 8.05×1018m/s2 directly upward in the figure, parallel to the line connecting q1 and q2.

bhgg7a.png


Homework Equations


E=k(q/r2)
F=k(q/r2)
E=F/q


The Attempt at a Solution


I already know what the answers are.
q1 = 5.97x10-6 C
q2 = -5.97x10-6 C

I just have no idea how they got those answers. Could someone please explain?
 
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  • #2
rm_girl said:

Homework Statement


Two point charges q1 and q2 are held 4.00cm apart. An electron released at a point that is equidistant from both charges, undergoes an initial acceleration of 8.05×1018m/s2 directly upward in the figure, parallel to the line connecting q1 and q2.

bhgg7a.png


Homework Equations


E=k(q/r2)
F=k(q/r2)
E=F/q



The Attempt at a Solution


I already know what the answers are.
q1 = 5.97x10-6 C
q2 = -5.97x10-6 C

I just have no idea how they got those answers. Could someone please explain?


Both charges exert some force on the electron. Draw the force vectors. What can you say about their direction?

ehild
 

FAQ: Electric field - Finding the charges

What is an electric field?

An electric field is a region in space where an electric charge experiences a force. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

How do you calculate the electric field?

The electric field can be calculated by dividing the force experienced by a charge by the magnitude of that charge. It is measured in Newtons per Coulomb (N/C).

What is the relationship between electric field and electric charges?

Electric charges create electric fields and are affected by them. The direction of the electric field is determined by the sign of the charge: positive charges create outward-pointing electric fields, while negative charges create inward-pointing electric fields.

How do you find the charges in an electric field?

To find the charges in an electric field, you can use the equation E = kQ/r^2, where E is the electric field, k is the Coulomb's constant, Q is the charge, and r is the distance from the charge to the point where the electric field is being measured.

What types of materials can be used to create an electric field?

Any material that has an imbalance of electric charges can create an electric field. This includes conductors, insulators, and semiconductors. However, the strength of the electric field may vary depending on the material's properties.

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