Electric field strength from x=-a to x = a

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding electric field strength in a scenario involving two opposite charges positioned on the y-axis. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the behavior of the electric field at the midpoint between the charges.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions why the electric field strength is not zero at x = 0, considering the charges are opposite. Some participants clarify that the vectors of the electric fields from the charges point in the same direction at that point.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the implications of charge placement on electric field strength. Clarifications have been provided regarding the direction of the electric field vectors, and the original poster acknowledges the oversight in their reasoning.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes an acknowledgment of the original poster's confusion and the need for patience when approaching physics problems, highlighting the complexity of the concepts involved.

physiccool78
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Homework Statement


I attached a file.

Numbers 10 and 12.

Homework Equations



kQq/r, kQq/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I am confused about this problem. Shouldn't the electric field strength be 0 when x = 0? The charges are opposite and adding two opposite vectors with equal magnitude should be 0 right? So how come the answer says that the electric field strength is the greatest at x = 0 then? Thank you.
 

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They are in opposite positions on the y axis,so the vectors of the electric fields point in the same direction.They both point to the negative charge.
 
Wow... Thank you and now I feel embarrassed for asking this question! I can't believe I overlooked this. Thank you.
 
Just be a little more patient with physics problems,however simple or confusing they might be.
 

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