Find the magnitude and direction of force in a dipole

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the net force on a point charge Q=7μC due to two point charges, q1=3μC and q2=-3μC, in a dipole configuration. The initial approach using the dipole electric field formula, Edipole = kqs/r^3, is incorrect for this scenario as it applies only at large distances. Instead, the correct method involves calculating the individual forces exerted by each charge on Q and then using vector addition to determine the net force.

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  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law and electric forces
  • Familiarity with vector addition in physics
  • Knowledge of dipole electric fields and their limitations
  • Basic principles of electrostatics
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  • Learn about vector addition in physics
  • Explore the limitations of dipole electric field equations
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Homework Statement


In Figure 21.12, two point charges q1=3uC and q2=-3uC interact with a third point charge Q=7uC. Find the magnitude and direction of the total (net) force on Q.


Homework Equations


Edipole= kqs/r^3

The Attempt at a Solution


I solved for the electric field with the above equation. I then multiplies that by the charge of Q to get the net force but it won't work! Help!
 

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That formula only applies at distances much greater than the distance between the charges of the dipole. Instead of using that formula, just find the force from each charge and add them up (vector addition, of course) to get the net force.
 

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