Electric Field Zero Points: Square Arrangement of Charges | Homework Question

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the points at which the electric field is zero in a system of four charges arranged at the corners of a square. The context is rooted in electrostatics and electric field theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to identify points A and B as locations where the electric field might be zero, based on the symmetry of the charges. Some participants question whether the electric field components in the y direction at those points are indeed zero.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of the electric field components at points A and B. There is a focus on understanding the contributions from distant charges and whether they affect the net electric field at those points.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the effects of both positive and negative charges on the electric field, particularly in relation to their distances and orientations. There is an acknowledgment of the complexity introduced by the arrangement of the charges.

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Homework Statement


Four charges are arranged on the corner of a square. At which points is the electric field equal to zero?

Diagram:
http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/1994/diagram2zb7.png


Homework Equations


None


The Attempt at a Solution


I chose A and B because the charges are equal so therefore the electric field will be zero right inbetween them.
 
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Certainly the x components of the fields are balanced at A & B, but what about the field in the y direction at A & B? Is it 0 at those points?
 
Thanks for your help. I don't know about the y direction.
 
When you are at A what is the field from the far away negative charges? It would be non-zero wouldn't it?

Likewise at point B for the positive charges.
 

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