Net electric forces on a point charge

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the net electric force on charge Q3, which has a value of 4×10-6C, influenced by two other charges: Q1 at 5×10-6C and Q2 at -3×10-6C. Participants confirm that Coulomb's law should be applied to determine the forces between Q3 and the other two charges. The correct approach involves calculating the individual forces exerted on Q3 by Q1 and Q2 and then summing these forces vectorially to find the total force acting on Q3.

PREREQUISITES
  • Coulomb's law for electric forces
  • Understanding of point charges
  • Vector addition of forces
  • Basic knowledge of electrostatics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Coulomb's law in different configurations of point charges
  • Learn about vector addition techniques in physics
  • Explore the concept of electric field strength and its relation to point charges
  • Investigate the principles of superposition in electrostatics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone studying electrostatics, particularly those focusing on the interactions between multiple point charges and the application of Coulomb's law.

Colts
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Homework Statement


In the figure, what is the force on charge Q3?
Q1 = 5×10-6C, Q2 = -3×10-6C, Q3 = 4×10-6C
http://www.usi.edu/science/physics/pickett/206/4p2f1.jpg

Homework Equations


Coulomb's law


The Attempt at a Solution


I thought I could just find the charges on q1 and 3 and then on 2 and 3 and add them but I don't think that is right. Can you just add electrical forces?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Colts said:

Homework Statement


In the figure, what is the force on charge Q3?
Q1 = 5×10-6C, Q2 = -3×10-6C, Q3 = 4×10-6C
http://www.usi.edu/science/physics/pickett/206/4p2f1.jpg

Homework Equations


Coulomb's law


The Attempt at a Solution


I thought I could just find the charges on q1 and 3 and then on 2 and 3 and add them but I don't think that is right. Can you just add electrical forces?

Yes, use Coulomb's law and sum the 2 forces on Q3 to get the total force on Q3.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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