Electrostatic Equilibrium Problem

AI Thread Summary
To achieve electrostatic equilibrium with four equal point charges +q at the corners of a square, a central charge must be calculated. The forces exerted by the corner charges on one charge need to be analyzed as vectors. A diagram is essential for visualizing the forces and their directions. Understanding the vector components will help determine the necessary magnitude and sign of the central charge. Properly resolving these forces is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Electrostatics Equilibrium Problem-It is required to hold four equal point charges +q each in equilibrium at the corners of a square. Find the point charge that will do this if kept at the center of the square?
I am doing the basics of coulomb's law,can anyone explain this to me?
I cannot do this problem,the problem seems to be complex to me?
 
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Start by drawing a diagram. Pick one of the charges. Figure out what force the other three charges exert on it. (The forces are vectors, so be careful.)

Once you do that you'll be in a better place to figure out what that central charge must be.
 
Sir,what to do about the direction of the vector?
 
ommmmm said:
Sir,what to do about the direction of the vector?
Start by drawing that diagram.
 

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