Help Needed: Calculating Force Using Image Charges

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force on a particle using image charges, specifically addressing the formula F=2q^2/(2a^2)-2cos(60)q^2/a^2. The user, Adam, seeks assistance in applying the concept correctly, noting that the gray section has zero potential and that the upper and lower charges are negative while the two middle charges are positive. The need for clarity in the significance of variables is emphasized, highlighting the importance of precise communication in physics problems.

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  • Familiarity with the concept of image charges in electrostatics
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adamp121
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Hi,

I'm trying to use image charges to find the force that apply on the following particle (on the attachment) , but it seems that I do something wrong -
F=2q^2/(2a^2)-2cos(60)q^2/a^2
The gray section have 0 potential, so I've tried to put image charges like it is in the second attachment file.
Can someone help me?

Thanks,
Adam
 

Attachments

  • temp.jpg
    temp.jpg
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  • temp2.jpg
    temp2.jpg
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Graphics can help. But you must descript all the letters significance.¡¡¡ We are physics, not engineerings
 
Sorry...
The upper and the lower charges are negative while the two middles are positive.
 

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