Electric field strength from two charges

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field strength at point P due to two identical point charges, q1 and q2, each with a magnitude of +2.5 x 10-6 C. The electric field equations used are E = k x Q / r2, where k is the electrostatic constant. The calculated electric fields are E1 = 9 x 106 N/C from q1 and E2 = 1.563 x 106 N/C from q2. The final step involves using vector addition to combine these two perpendicular electric fields to find the resultant electric field at point P.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law and electric field calculations
  • Familiarity with the concept of vector addition
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometry, particularly with right angles
  • Proficiency in using the electrostatic constant, k = 8.99 x 109 N m2/C2
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector addition techniques, especially for perpendicular vectors
  • Learn about the superposition principle in electric fields
  • Explore the implications of electric field strength in different configurations of point charges
  • Review trigonometric functions relevant to calculating angles in electric field problems
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Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone involved in solving problems related to electric fields and forces from point charges.

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Homework Statement


Two identical point charges, q1 = +2.5 x 10-6 C and q2 = +2.5 x 10-6 C, are placed as shown in the diagram below. Point P is a distance 0.05 m from q1 and 0.12 m from q2, such that the angle at P is 90 degrees. Calculate the magnitude of the Electric field E at point P.


Homework Equations



E = k x Q / r^2

This plus vector which I suck at.


The Attempt at a Solution


Electric Field Magnitude zz.jpg


So I have created the diagram and I believe I have to use the second formula twice, along with some trigonometry, but I'm not sure.

E1 = k x Q1 / r^2
E1 = k x +2.5 x 10^-6 / 0.05^2
E1 = 9 x 10^6

E2 = k x Q2 / r^2
E2 = k x +2.5 x 10^-6 / 0.12^2
E2 = 1.563 x 10^6

I Can't do vectors at all. Please help.
 
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So now you have two forces, one along the line q1-P and one along the line q2-P. So happens you know the angle between the two. Google vector addition (images) to get an impression of that magic art. Realize that it's really easy when the vectors are at right angles wrt one another. Something Pythagoreran. Bingo.
 

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