Find the Point Where Electric Field is Zero: A Charge Problem

AI Thread Summary
To find the point where the electric field is zero between two charges, Q1 (+9 nC) and Q2 (+4 nC), it's essential to analyze the regions along the x-axis. The electric fields from both charges must cancel each other out, which can occur either to the left of Q1, between the charges, or to the right of Q2. The discussion emphasizes the importance of drawing field vectors to visualize where cancellation might occur. Additionally, the potential at x = -5 and the work needed to move Q2 from x = 5 to x = 3 are related to understanding electric potential and work done against electric fields. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
Ruleski
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Homework Statement



A pair of charges sits on the x-axis, a charge Q1 = +9 nC at the origin and Q2 = +4 nC at x = 5. Assume no other charges are present. All coordinates are in meters.

At which one of these points is the net electric field equal to zero?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Follow up questions:

What is the potential at x = -5 ?

How much work is required to move the +4 nC charge (Q2) from its original location at x = 5 to x = 3 ?

Any explanation would help?
Thank You
 
The field can be zero at a point only if the fields due to the two charges cancel out at that point.
In which region can this happen? Left of Q1 / between Q1 and Q2 / right of Q2 ?
In each region you could draw the field vectors due to each charge & see where they could possibly cancel out.

Moving on to the follow up questions, do you know the potential due to a charge? And, how work is related to potential ?
 
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