Electric Force and Electric Field problem

AI Thread Summary
The problem involves calculating the ratio of the electric force on a honeybee with a charge of 18 pC to its weight, which is determined using the formula W=mg. The weight of the bee is calculated to be 0.00147 N. To find the electric force, the relationship E=F/q is used, where E is the electric field strength. Additionally, to suspend the bee in the air, the required electric field strength must counteract its weight, necessitating a downward electric field direction. Understanding the concepts of electric field (N/C) and force is essential for solving this problem.
ltruiz45
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Homework Statement



A 0.15 g honeybee acquires a charge of 18 pC while flying. The electric field near the surface of the Earth is typically 100 N/C, directed downward.

What is the ratio of the electric force on the bee to the bee's weight?
What electric field strength and direction would allow the bee to hang suspended in the air?


Homework Equations



E=F/q
F=k|q1q2|/r^2
W=mg

The Attempt at a Solution



Weight of bee = 9.8 * .15g
I honestly have no idea on how to begin this problem. I would appreciate any help!

Thanks!
 
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Do you know what "N/C" means? Do you know what the electric field is?
 

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