Finding magnitude of electrostatic force

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the electrostatic force acting on charge q2, which is positioned between charges q1 (30 µC) and q3 (60 µC). The distances involved are 30 cm from q1 to q2 and 60 cm from q2 to q3. The relevant formula for calculating the force is F = k * (q1 * q2) / r², where k is Coulomb's constant. The user is confused about equating the forces exerted by q1 and q3 on q2 and seeks clarification on how to proceed with the calculations.

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  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law and electrostatic forces
  • Familiarity with the concept of point charges
  • Basic knowledge of distance measurement in centimeters
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geryuu11
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Homework Statement


Im having trouble posting the image sorry.
But there's three charges.
q1=30uC
q2=?
q3=60uC
q1 to q2 distance equals 30cm
q2 to q3 distance equals 60cm
q1 is left of q2 and q3 is to the right of q2.

Homework Equations


F=k*qq/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Given where q2 is, wouldn't both of the forces that q1 and q3 exerted on q2, be the same?
So I tried setting their forces equal F(subq12)=F(subq32) and I couldn't figure out what to solve for. I've tried to look it up in my book,but this just makes it more confusing. Any help or links would be great thanks.
 
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Hi geryuu11, Welcome to Physics Forums.

Can you provide a question in the Problem Statement section? As it stands there's no information about what it is you're expected to do with the information given. If this is a homework question, please provide the text of the question.
 

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