Force on (+q) in a Square Configuration

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The discussion revolves around calculating the force on a charge (+q) located at one corner of a square configuration with four charges. The initial calculations for the x-component of the force were presented, leading to an expression of F = K q (Q/L^2) in both x and y directions, resulting in a magnitude of F = √2 K q (Q/L^2). However, the textbook provides a different answer, F = (2 - √2) K q (Q/L^2), prompting confusion about the origin of the "2" term. A participant suggests that the discrepancy arises from not properly accounting for the projection of the force from the charge (+4Q) in the x-direction, indicating a need for careful consideration of geometry in the calculations. The discussion highlights the importance of accurately applying principles of electrostatics and geometry in force calculations.
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Homework Statement


4 charges are arranged in the corners of a square of lengths L as follows:

(-Q) --------- (+q)
|
|
|
(+4Q) ------- (-Q)

What is the magnitude of the force on the (+q)?

The Attempt at a Solution


My answer doesn't match up with my book's.

x-component of the force is, where K is \frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_0}:

F_x = K q(\frac{- Q}{L^2} + \frac{4Q}{2 L^2}) = K q \frac{Q}{L^2}

The x and y components of the force are equal by symmetry:

\vec{F} = K q \frac{Q}{L^2} (\hat{x} + \hat{y})

Therefore the magnitude is:

F = \sqrt{2} K q \frac{Q}{L^2}

However, my textbook says the answer is:

F = (2 - \sqrt{2}) K q \frac{Q}{L^2}

I have no idea where they got the "2" term from. I probably just made a careless mistake somewhere, but I can't see it.
 
Last edited:
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so, in F_x,when computing F(4Q)

you must 1 compute L, and then compute projection in x, i guess that wasn't made...
i made Kq \frac{4Q}{\frac{L}{cos(45º)}^{2}}*cos(45º)

gretts
littlepig

P.s, Sorry, but i give up, 10m to try making the equation and i still couldn't do it...
 
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Ah, that's exactly it! I always forget to do that. Thanks.
 
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