Electric field strength of 4 charges positioned in a square shape

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves four charged particles positioned at the corners of a square, with specific values assigned to some charges. Participants are tasked with determining the electric field at the location of one charge and the total electrostatic force exerted on it.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to derive equations for electric field strength and force, noting the vector nature of electric fields. Some express uncertainty about how to approach the problem, while others suggest focusing on the relationship between electric field and force.

Discussion Status

The discussion has seen some participants successfully address the first part of the problem regarding the electric field, while others remain uncertain about the second part concerning the total force. Hints and guidance have been provided, particularly regarding the relationship between electric field and force.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of using specific variables and constants related to the problem, and there is an acknowledgment of the complexity involved in solving the questions algebraically.

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Homework Statement


Four charged particles are at the corners of a square of side a as shown in the figure below. (Let
A = 3, B = 5 and C = 6.)

NJQ487h.gif


(a) Determine the electric field at the location of charge q. (Use the following as necessary: q, a, and ke.)
(b) Determine the total electrostatic force exerted on q. (Use the following as necessary: q, a, and ke.)

Homework Equations


F=Eq


The Attempt at a Solution


Assuming that I have to solve this algebraically...
 
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Yeah - all they want is the resulting equation.
You also need the equation for E. Don't forget E is a vector.
 
I really have no idea how to solve this question...
 
You know how to work out the force on the charge q?
 
Simon Bridge said:
You know how to work out the force on the charge q?

I have managed to do the first question.

Not sure how to do the second one...
 
The first one asks for the electric field - which you should have as a strength and direction.
The second one asks you to find the force as a result - what is the relationship between electric field and the force on a charge?
Hint: you gave the equation in post #1.
 
Simon Bridge said:
The first one asks for the electric field - which you should have as a strength and direction.
The second one asks you to find the force as a result - what is the relationship between electric field and the force on a charge?
Hint: you gave the equation in post #1.

God thinking too hard on a one question resulted in tunnel vision.

Problem solved. Thank you.
 
No worries.
 

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