Net Force & Direction Calculation - Homework Solution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the net force and direction acting on a red object due to interactions with two other objects, specifically using the inverse square law and vector equations. The calculated forces are 4.69x10^-3 N between the blue and red objects and 9.04x10^-3 N between the green and red objects. Participants suggest using trigonometry to find the angle and combining forces using rectangular to polar conversion. The importance of considering the motion of all charges and possibly using center of mass coordinates is emphasized for accuracy.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with vector addition and trigonometry
  • Knowledge of the inverse square law in physics
  • Ability to perform coordinate transformations (rectangular to polar)
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Students studying physics, particularly those focused on mechanics and electromagnetism, as well as educators looking for problem-solving strategies in force calculations.

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Homework Statement


Given the screen shots I am to calculate net force, Fc and direction, on the red object after 1.00 s


Homework Equations






The Attempt at a Solution


after doing using basic distance formula to calculate r I got a Force for the blue and red at 4.69x10^-3N and Force of the green and red at 9.04X10^-3N. I think i need to calculate Theta next but I am not sure any help is much appreciated.
 

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I would think you need a vector equation for force with time as the dependent variable. Is the second picture a given or is it your work? From the initial picture, all three charges should move (else why specify all three masses?), but the second picture only shows one charge moving.

If the 2nd pic is a given, then I'd figure the x and y distances for each, apply the inverse square law to each and add up the x and y forces separately, then combine the components using a rectangular to polar conversion to get an angle and a force.

Perhaps working in center of mass coordinates might be easier if all charges are actually moving away from each other rather than having 2 fixed.
 
Yes the second one is a given. I was going to use basic trig and find the angle and that F+F and incorporate the angle does this sound right?
 

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