How Is Maximum Speed Calculated for Identical Charges Released Simultaneously?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the maximum speed of three identical +6x10^-6 C charges, each with a mass of 10^-6 kg, released simultaneously from a point where one charge is brought in from a distance. The work done to bring the third charge to point P is calculated to be 0.18 J, but the initial attempt to find the velocity resulted in an incorrect value of 600 m/s. The participant recognizes the need to consider the varying electric potential due to the distances between the charges, using the equation V = (1/4πε₀)(q/r) to find the total potential affecting each charge. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly accounting for the potential differences when calculating the kinetic energy and resulting speeds of the charges. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurately determining the maximum speed attained by each charge.
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Homework Statement


Two identical +6x10^-6 C charges, each with a mass of 10^-6, are placed as shown in the diagram below. All coordinates are in meters.
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An identical charge is brought in slowly from far away to point P.
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All three charges are released simultaneously. What is the maximum speed attained by each of them?


Homework Equations


V=U/q
deltaU=-deltaK


The Attempt at a Solution


I found in one part of the question that the work that it took to bring the third charge to point P was 0.18 J. I then did 0.18=-Kf+Ki to try and solve for a velocity. I got 600 m/s, but this was incorrect. I am not sure what else to do; I feel like there is something that I am missing on how to find a velocity for EACH charge.
 

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Not exactly sure if this is right, but I would try using:

\Delta K = -q\Delta V

The potential is not the same for all charges, since the distance varies according to:

V=\frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_o}\frac{q}{r}

For one charge, the total potential is the sum of potentials due to the other two charges.
 
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