Physics problem on force of a charge

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the forces between two point charges, q1 = +10nC at the origin and q2 = -18nC at x = 9.0m. The user initially applied Coulomb's law incorrectly, leading to an erroneous force calculation of 1.3122*10^14. Key corrections highlighted include the need to account for the "n" in nanoCoulombs and ensuring proper division by r^2 rather than multiplication. Additionally, there was a clarification that "k" refers to Coulomb's constant, not Coulomb's law. Accurate calculations and unit considerations are essential for determining the forces on both charges.
Joshua Beyer
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Homework Statement


Two point charges are on the x-axis. One charge, q1 = +10nC, is located at the origin, and the other charge, p2=-18nC is located at x = 9.0m

Homework Equations


a.) what is the force on q2(include direction)?
b.) what is the force on q1(include direction)?

The Attempt at a Solution


f=(k(q1q2)/r^2)
f=(9.0*10^9(10*18)/9^2)
K = coulomb's law = 9.0*10^9
I got 1.3122*10^14, but was told that was WAY wrong.
 
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HI, Joshua. Welcome to PF!

(1) Note that the charge is given in units of nC. You need to take into account the "n".
It's a very good idea to include units in your calculation and make sure that the units combine to give the correct unit for the force.

(2) Looks like you multiplied by 9^2 rather than divided by 9^2.

(3) "k" is Coulomb's constant, not Coulomb's law.
 
Joshua Beyer said:

Homework Statement


Two point charges are on the x-axis. One charge, q1 = +10nC, is located at the origin, and the other charge, p2=-18nC is located at x = 9.0m

Homework Equations


a.) what is the force on q2(include direction)?
b.) what is the force on q1(include direction)?

The Attempt at a Solution


f=(k(q1q2)/r^2)
f=(9.0*10^9(10*18)/9^2)
K = coulomb's law = 9.0*10^9
I got 1.3122*10^14, but was told that was WAY wrong.

I believe the "n" in "nC" stands for "nano".
 
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