Electric Forces and Coulomb's Law Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving an electrostatic force problem involving charges Q1 and Q2, with Q1 set at -5 nC and Q2 at +7 nC. The objective is to determine the magnitude of charge Q0 when the net electrostatic force on Q2 is zero. The user applies Coulomb's Law, represented by the equation F = (k*q1*q2)/d^2, and successfully derives the relationship between the charges after some algebraic manipulation. Ultimately, the user confirms their solution process and resolves their initial confusion regarding the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Coulomb's Law for electrostatic forces
  • Understanding of vector components in physics
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of electrostatic charge units (nanoCoulombs)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of charge configuration on electrostatic forces
  • Explore vector addition in electrostatics
  • Learn about equilibrium conditions in electrostatic systems
  • Investigate the impact of distance on electrostatic force calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying electrostatics, as well as educators and anyone seeking to understand the application of Coulomb's Law in problem-solving scenarios.

Cisneros778
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Homework Statement


In the figure, the net electrostatic force on charge Q2 is zero. If Q1 = -5 nC and Q2 = +7 nC, determine the magnitude of Q0.
http://www.webassign.net/bauerphys1/21-p-079-alt.gif

Homework Equations


F = (k*q1*q2)/d^2


The Attempt at a Solution


I notice that Fnetx and Fnety for Q2 are the same.
So I write,
Fq1*cos(theta) + Fq1 sin(theta) - Fq0(.707) = 0
k*q1*q2/d^2*(cos(theta) + sin(theta)) = k*q2*q0/x^2*(.707)
then after some algebra I get,
[q1*x^2*(cos(theta) + sin(theta))]/(d^2*.707) = Q0

I am questioning my method here, but this is what I have done so far.
 
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Sorry, d is the distance between q1 and q2
x is the distance between q0 and q2
 
It's funny how when I'm writing how I attempted the solution I get a moment of clarity and I figure out the problem. Thanks anyways, I got it!
 

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