How Do You Calculate the Electric Field at the Origin with Three Charges?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the electric field at the origin due to three charges (q1=+2Q, q2=-2Q, q3=-4Q), the magnitudes of the electric field vectors for each charge must be determined using the equation E = Σ kq/r². The confusion arises from the unspecified distance d, which is essential for calculating the electric field's magnitude. The components of the electric field along the x and y axes need to be calculated using trigonometric functions (sin and cos) based on the angles of the charges. Finally, the resultant electric field can be found by applying the vector addition rule to combine the components. Understanding these steps is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
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Homework Statement


Three charges q1=+2Q q2=-2Q q3=-4Q. are each a distance d from the origin. What is the magnitude and direction of the electric field at the origin.
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I'm getting confused by not having d specified as a number.

Homework Equations


E = Σ kq/r2

The Attempt at a Solution


I've determined the magnitudes of the three E vectors for each charge. I know I cannot algebraically sum them and that I have to use sin/cos to get their components however I don't know where to begin.
Thank you so much for your help!
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Calculate the components along x and y axes. You know the angle already. Add them according to vector addition rule to get the resultant electric field.
 
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