Force on a Point Charge: Finding the Location of a Third Charge

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on determining the location of a third charge Q on the x-axis where the total electric force on it is zero, given two charges: q and -2q. The participants clarify that a charge of -2q indicates it has a magnitude twice that of charge q but with opposite polarity. The relationship between the charges is explored using Coulomb's Law, focusing on the balance of forces acting on Q. The conversation emphasizes understanding the nature of charge magnitudes and their implications in electrostatics. Ultimately, the key takeaway is the importance of charge polarity and magnitude in calculating electric forces.
acherentia
Messages
46
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



2 particles of charge q and -2q are located as shown in http://s966.photobucket.com/albums/ae146/acherentia/ . A third charge Q is placed on the x-axis and it is found that the total electric force on Q is zero. In which region of the figure is Q located?

Homework Equations



Coulomb's Law

The Attempt at a Solution



F1 + F2 = 0

F1(q on Q) = ?

F2(-2q on Q) = ?

What exactly does it mean a charge of -2q? Is it the same as the charge of 2 electrons?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi acherentia! :smile:
acherentia said:
What exactly does it mean a charge of -2q? Is it the same as the charge of 2 electrons?

It just means that the second charge is minus twice the first charge …

it could be one proton and two electrons, or just one coulomb of positive charge and two coulombs of negative charge, or any such combination. :wink:
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'

In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
View full post »

Similar threads

Electrostatics: Gauss' Law Problem Finding the Flux through a Conducting Spherical Shell
Replies
9
Views
2K
Electric field created by point charges
Replies
6
Views
747
Total Force on a Point Charge in Motion
Replies
18
Views
1K
Balance of forces for two charged spheres hanging from the ceiling
Replies
18
Views
2K
Point charge with very thin metal sheet along a spherical surface
Replies
21
Views
2K
E-field at the origin from two point charges
Replies
16
Views
3K
Pressure versus stress in uniformly charged sphere
Replies
11
Views
1K
Force-neutralizing charge (electrostatics)
Replies
23
Views
3K
Can a dipole be modeled as a point charge?
Replies
10
Views
451
What is the optimal position for a third charge to achieve a net force of zero?
Replies
8
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top