Finding the Zero Net Electric Field Point for Two Point Charges on the x-axis

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Two point charges, +10nC and -20nC, are positioned on the x-axis at x=0 and x=10m, respectively. The goal is to find the point where the net electric field is zero. The correct solution indicates that this point is located at 24m from the origin, while some participants mistakenly calculated it as 20m. The electric field equations used involve the constants and distances from the charges, leading to the conclusion that the zero net electric field point is indeed at x=-24m. Clarifications on the calculations emphasize the importance of correctly setting up the equations for electric fields.
keeganisafish
I really need help, and I'd greatly appreciate it.

"Two point charges of +10nC and -20nC lie on the x-axis at points x=0 and x=+10m, respectavly. Find the point where the net electric field is zero, if such a point exists."

The teacher gave us the answer 24m, and I just can't see how!

You help is REALLY APPRECIATED, I have been on this one forver it seems...

I keep getting 20m?
 
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Show your solution sheet where u got 20 m

24m is correct
 
I did

k*10nC     k(-20nC)
-------   --------
(10m)^2     (d-10m)^2

And solved for d
 
Originally posted by keeganisafish
I did

k*10nC     k(-20nC)
-------   --------
(10m)^2     (d-10m)^2

And solved for d

It should be
\frac{k*10nC}{r^2}-\frac{k*20nC}{(10+r)^2}=0

coz fields adds upto zero on the position left to origin

i should say for x=-24
 
Last edited:
thanks!
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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