Electric Forces: Need Help Solving!

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the electric force between two charged spheres and comparing it to their weight. The electric force is determined using Coulomb's law, resulting in a value of 0.0146 N. The user attempts to find the ratio of the electric force to the weight of one sphere, calculating it as approximately 0.523. There is uncertainty about the accuracy of the calculations and a request for verification of the approach taken. The thread highlights the need for clarity in applying physics formulas to solve electric force problems.
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Electric Forces...need help!

Homework Statement


Two small plastic spheres each have a mass of 2.85 g and a charge of -39 nC. They are placed 3.06 cm apart (center to center).

A. What is the magnitude of the electric force on each sphere?

B. By what factor is the electric force on a sphere larger than its weight?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


A. K*q*q / r^2 = 0.0146 N
B. I thought I could just do 0.0146 N / (0.00285kg * 9.81 m/s^2) = 0.523...is that right?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The concept is right.
 
so what am I doing wrong??
 
Are you? What? I haven't checked the numbers.
 

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