Electric field from two point charges

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves three point charges located at the corners of an equilateral triangle, with a focus on determining the net electric force acting on a specific charge. The charges are given as A = 1.00 µC, B = 6.50 µC, and C = -4.20 µC, and the task requires finding both the magnitude and direction of the force on the 1.00 µC charge.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about how to begin solving the problem and question which equations are applicable. There is mention of the electric field equation, but confusion arises regarding its manipulation to find the force. Some participants also highlight the distinction between calculating the electric field and the force itself.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the relevant equations and their application. There is recognition of the need to differentiate between electric field calculations and force calculations, indicating a productive exploration of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants indicate a lack of clarity on how to approach the problem and express uncertainty about the necessary equations, which may reflect constraints in their understanding of the underlying physics principles.

goWlfpack
Messages
51
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Three point charges are located at the corners of an equilateral triangle as in the figure below. Find the magnitude and direction of the net electric force on the 1.00 µC charge.

(A = 1.00 µC, B = 6.50 µC, and C = -4.20 µC.)

magnitude N
direction ° counterclockwise from the +x-axis




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I really have no idea where to even start.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
goWlfpack said:

Homework Statement


Three point charges are located at the corners of an equilateral triangle as in the figure below. Find the magnitude and direction of the net electric force on the 1.00 µC charge.

(A = 1.00 µC, B = 6.50 µC, and C = -4.20 µC.)

magnitude N
direction ° counterclockwise from the +x-axis




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I really have no idea where to even start.

What equations do you think applies?
 
I really don't know. I know that to find the electric field you use E=ke q1/r1^2 to find the E for the point. However i don't really know how to manipulate the equations to find the answers
 
goWlfpack said:
I really don't know. I know that to find the electric field you use E=ke q1/r1^2 to find the E for the point. However i don't really know how to manipulate the equations to find the answers

That is the equation for the E field, but they asked you for the Force.

What is the Force equation?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
2K