Electric Force Between +2.8 µC & -4.8 µC: Calculate Now

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric force between two charged objects: a glass ball with a charge of +2.8 µC and a rubber ball with a charge of -4.8 µC, separated by a distance of 4.5 cm. The relevant equation for this calculation is provided, but participants are exploring the nuances of the calculation process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to calculate the electric force using the formula F=k*Q1*Q2/r^2 and discussing the value of the constant k. Some are questioning the accuracy of their results and the significance of the negative sign in their answers.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the calculation process, with some participants providing their results and seeking clarification on potential errors. Guidance has been offered regarding the significance of the force's magnitude and the appropriate number of significant figures to use.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the use of UTexas Quest, which may influence the expected value for k and the precision of the answers. There is also a note about the common practice of reporting only the magnitude of the force in similar problems.

gotpink74
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Homework Statement


What is the electric force between a glass ball that has +2.8 µC of charge and a rubber ball that has -4.8 µC of charge when they are separated by a distance of 4.5 cm?


Homework Equations



F=k*Q1*Q2/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


-59.6507
-8.8888888.889
4.4380e12
 
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is K 9*10^9
 
gotpink74 said:
is K 9*10^9

Yes.
 
i got -59.7333 but it is still wrong i do not know what i am doing wrong
 
gotpink74 said:
i got -59.7333 but it is still wrong i do not know what i am doing wrong
Please show your work.
 
(9*10^9)*(2.8*10^(-6))*(-4.8*10^(-6))/0.045^2
 
Are you using UTexas Quest? If so, does it give you a value for k? The rounding difference might make your answer a bit off.
 
Usually they just want the magnitude of the force for this type of question. Try without the minus sign, otherwise it looks good to me. You should probably not go more precise than 3 significant figures too.
 

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