Electric force (varying) on q from Q (conceptual question)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the electric force acting on a charge q from another charge Q, positioned at a fixed location on the x-axis, while q is on the y-axis. The user inquires whether integrating the electric force equation, specifically \( F = \frac{qQ}{4 \pi \epsilon} \int \frac{1}{r^2} \), can yield the force required to move q a distance "a" along the y-axis. Participants clarify that integrating this equation with respect to dr results in the work done by the force, not the force itself, emphasizing the distinction between force and work in the context of variable electric forces.

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  • Concept of work-energy principle
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Antonius
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Let's say Q is a charge at fixed position on the x - axis. There is another identical charge q on the y - axis. There is an electric force acting on q from Q (and it's not constant.) My question is can I find force acting upon q from Q to move q to a certain distance "a" , along y - axis (distance "a" from it's original position.)

Now that I have stated the conditions, my question - Can I integrate the Electric Force = q Q / ( 4 π ε ) ∫ 1 / r^2 to find the force that acts on q due Q which causes q to move a distance "a"

If you have a link to a source that explains this whole idea of varying electric force please let me know, that would be a massive help.

Thank you :)
 
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You already know the force. It's a variable force whsose magnitude at any point is given by coulombs law. If you integrate it with respect to dr, as you have suggested, you'll get work done by the force, not force.
 
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UncertaintyAjay said:
You already know the force. It's a variable force whsose magnitude at any point is given by coulombs law. If you integrate it with respect to dr, as you have suggested, you'll get work done by the force, not force.
Thanks a lot! Yesterday, I completely forgot that the area under F x d graph is a work done by the force...
 

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