Finding q1,q2,q3; Electric charge problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving for the unknown charges q1, q2, and q3 in a linear arrangement where q1 and q3 are positive, and q2 is negative, with the condition that q1 + q2 = -1.0 micro-coulombs. The relevant equations include Coulomb's law (F = kQ/r^2) and the force equations (F = eE, F = qE). The main challenge identified is the presence of two unknowns without additional information on distance, electric field (E), or force, which complicates the solution process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's law and electric forces
  • Familiarity with micro-coulombs as a unit of charge
  • Basic knowledge of electric fields and their direction
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Coulomb's law in multi-charge systems
  • Learn about electric field calculations for point charges
  • Explore methods for solving systems of equations with multiple unknowns
  • Investigate the concept of superposition in electric fields
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in electrostatics, particularly those tackling problems involving multiple charges and electric fields.

Michael126
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Homework Statement



Referring to the figure, suppose q_2 is not known. Instead, it is given that q_1+q_2=-1.0. The figure is q1 q2 q3 all lined up in a row with q2 being negative and q1 and q3 being positive as the electric field lines from both q1 and q3 point towards the negatively charged q2. Find q1, q2, and q3.

Homework Equations


F=eE, F=qE, F= kQ/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I put q1+q2=-1.0 micro-coulombs into q1=-1.0 micro-coulombs-q2, and attempted to put that equation into the coulombs law equation but there are still two unkowns present, i can't seem to figure out where to go from there since no distance, E, or force is given.
 
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I also tried using the fundamental charge of 1.6*10^-19, but that proved to be ineffective as well, i did convert it to micro-coulombs
 
Michael126 said:

Homework Statement



Referring to the figure, suppose q_2 is not known. Instead, it is given that q_1+q_2=-1.0. The figure is q1 q2 q3 all lined up in a row with q2 being negative and q1 and q3 being positive as the electric field lines from both q1 and q3 point towards the negatively charged q2. Find q1, q2, and q3.


Homework Equations


F=eE, F=qE, F= kQ/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I put q1+q2=-1.0 micro-coulombs into q1=-1.0 micro-coulombs-q2, and attempted to put that equation into the coulombs law equation but there are still two unkowns present, i can't seem to figure out where to go from there since no distance, E, or force is given.



Did you ever get help in solving this?
 

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