Find Force of Multiple Charges on Origin Charge Q

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the net force exerted on an origin charge Q by multiple charges positioned along the x-axis and y-axis. Participants explore methods for calculating this force, including the use of vector addition and considerations of symmetry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about quicker methods for calculating the force from multiple charges on an origin charge Q, indicating difficulty in reaching the correct answer using a Cartesian plane.
  • Another participant suggests that there is no fast method and emphasizes the importance of exploiting symmetries; without symmetry, extensive vector algebra and projections are necessary.
  • A repeated inquiry about using vector addition along the x-axis and y-axis is made, indicating a focus on calculating the net force from all charges.
  • There is a confirmation that vector addition is indeed the method to calculate the net force on the origin charge.
  • A participant questions the initial inquiry by asking what the problem is, given that the method to solve it has been identified.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the existence of a quicker method for solving the problem, with differing views on the necessity of symmetry and the complexity of the calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the specific configurations of the charges and the implications of their positions on the calculations. The discussion does not clarify the assumptions about charge magnitudes or distances.

Gift Sama
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what are the generalised and more quicker ways of finding Force that multiple charges (4 charges along the y-axis and x-axis at most) exert on the origin charge Q. i have used a cartesian plane to try solve for the vectors but seem to not get to the right answer.
 
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there's no "fast" way. you need to exploit all the symmetries you have, if you have no symmetry you just have to grind out the vector algebra and projections
 
Gift Sama said:
what are the generalised and more quicker ways of finding Force that multiple charges (4 charges along the y-axis and x-axis at most) exert on the origin charge Q. i have used a cartesian plane to try solve for the vectors but seem to not get to the right answer.

Using vector addition along x-axis and y-axis ?
 
Qwertywerty said:
Using vector addition along x-axis and y-axis ?
yes with the aim of calculating the net force all charges exert on the origin charge
 
yes with the aim of calculating the net force all charges exert on the origin charge
So what's your problem since you have got the way to solve it?
 

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