I know everything to do on this problem except one thing

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenge of calculating the variables rA, rB, rA', and rB' in a physics problem involving potential and kinetic energy. The user has a strategy that includes applying the principle of conservation of energy to find velocity (V) after determining the energies of particles A, B, and C. Participants suggest starting with the relevant formulas and emphasize the importance of clearly defining the variables and their physical meanings, particularly the distances involved, which may require the use of the distance formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential and kinetic energy concepts
  • Familiarity with the principle of conservation of energy
  • Knowledge of the distance formula in physics
  • Ability to create and interpret diagrams for physical problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the conservation of energy in physics problems
  • Learn how to derive and apply the distance formula in various contexts
  • Explore the use of diagrams to visualize physical situations and variables
  • Review the Pythagorean theorem and its relevance in calculating distances
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those tackling problems involving energy conservation and distance calculations, as well as anyone seeking to improve their problem-solving strategies in physics.

flamebane
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Homework Statement
Two charged particles A (qA = 2.86 𝜇C) and B (qB = 1.47 𝜇C) are fixed in place along the x-axis at 𝑥 = ±3.38 cm, respectively. If a third charged particle C (qC = 3.92 𝜇C and mass mC = 10.21 mg) is released from rest on the y-axis at y = 2.57 cm, what will the speed of particle C be when it reaches 𝑦 = 4.43 cm? Answer in m/s
Relevant Equations
principle of conservation of energy
KE
Even though I have all the formulas needed to do this problem, I cant figure out how to get rA, rB and rA' aswell as rB'
 
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flamebane said:
Even though I have all the formulas needed to do this problem, I cant figure out how to get rA, rB and rA' aswell as rB'
You could start by showing us the formulas that you plan to use. But perhaps we need to back up a step. Can you explain your strategy? What formulas are justified by the physical situation? Please provide that justification.

Then you would be in a position to explain what ##r_A##, ##r_B##, ##r_A'## and ##r_B'## are.

[And we might be in a position to recommend the Pythagorean theorem]
 
jbriggs444 said:
You could start by showing us the formulas that you plan to use. But perhaps we need to back up a step. Can you explain your strategy? What formulas are justified by the physical situation? Please provide that justification.
My strategy is to first find all the potential and kinetic energy of particles A and B, then C. then using the principle of conservation of energy to find V.
 
flamebane said:
My strategy is to first find all the potential and kinetic energy of particles A and B, then C. then using the principle of conservation of energy to find V.
I know what the r's mean I just dont really know how I'm ment to get it, would I use the distance formula?
 
flamebane said:
My strategy is to first find all the potential and kinetic energy of particles A and B, then C. then using the principle of conservation of energy to find V.
Then start by writing some equations for the potential and kinetic energies. If there are quantities that you don't know how to express, point them out. A diagram should help.
 
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flamebane said:
I know what the r's mean I just dont really know how I'm ment to get it, would I use the distance formula?
You may know what the r's mean. But we do not. Because you have not told us.

I could make a good guess that ##r_A## is the distance from <somewhere> to <somewhere else>. Yes, if so, then the formula for calculating the distance from <somewhere> to <somewhere else> will be important.
 
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