Finding magnitude and direction of net torque on a dipole

In summary, a dipole is a pair of equal and opposite charges separated by a small distance. The net torque on a dipole is the rotational force caused by an external electric field, which can be calculated by multiplying the electric field strength by the distance between the charges. The magnitude of the net torque can be found using the formula τ = qEd, and the direction can be determined using the right-hand rule. It is possible for the net torque on a dipole to be zero if the dipole is aligned parallel to the electric field or in an equilibrium position where the forces are balanced.
  • #1
ick84
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Homework Statement



For the dipole shown, the charges are ± 3.0 micro coulombs separated by a distance of 3.20 nm and oriented so that the theta is 35.0 degrees. If the electric field has a magnitude of 8000 N/C, find the magnitude and direction (clockwise/counterclockwise) of the net torque on the dipole about the same axis as before.


Homework Equations



F = qE
torque = Fl

The Attempt at a Solution



first i solved for F = (3.0E-6 C)(8000N/C) = 2.4E-2 N

then solved for l = (3.20nm)(sin35) = 1.84E-9

net torque = 2 * F * l ??
 

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  • #2
NVM i solved it...

T = Fl
T = qEl
 

1. What is a dipole?

A dipole is a pair of equal and opposite charges that are separated by a small distance. It can also refer to a molecule that has a positive and negative end due to the unequal distribution of charges.

2. What is the net torque on a dipole?

The net torque on a dipole is the rotational force acting on the dipole due to the presence of an external electric field. It is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the electric field by the distance between the charges in the dipole.

3. How do you find the magnitude of the net torque on a dipole?

To find the magnitude of the net torque on a dipole, you can use the formula: τ = qEd, where τ is the torque, q is the charge, E is the electric field, and d is the distance between the charges in the dipole.

4. How do you find the direction of the net torque on a dipole?

The direction of the net torque on a dipole is determined by the right-hand rule. Point your fingers in the direction of the electric field and curl them towards the direction of the charges in the dipole. Your thumb will point in the direction of the net torque.

5. Can the net torque on a dipole be zero?

Yes, the net torque on a dipole can be zero if the dipole is aligned parallel to the electric field or if the dipole is in an equilibrium position where the forces acting on it are balanced. In these cases, the torque due to one charge will cancel out the torque due to the other charge.

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