Point Charge Problem: Find Force Magnitude & Direction

AI Thread Summary
The problem involves calculating the electrostatic force on a point charge at the origin due to two identical point charges placed at 50 cm and 100 cm on the x-axis. Using Coulomb's Law, one participant calculated the force to be 0.36 N directed to the right. However, there is confusion regarding the nature of the forces, as identical charges repel each other rather than attract. Clarification is sought on the calculations, particularly regarding the direction of the force. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly applying Coulomb's Law to determine both magnitude and direction of the forces involved.
PetetheGreek
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Homework Statement



Three identical point charges of 2.0x10-6C are placed on the x-axis. The firs charge is at the origin, the second to the right at x= 50cm, and the third is at 100 cm mark. What are the magnitude and direction of the electrostatic force which acts on the charge at the origin?
physics.jpg


Homework Equations



Coulombs Law
physics-1.png


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm coming up with 0.36N to the right but I'm not sure if it's right.
 
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PetetheGreek said:

Homework Statement



Three identical point charges of 2.0x10-6C are placed on the x-axis. The firs charge is at the origin, the second to the right at x= 50cm, and the third is at 100 cm mark. What are the magnitude and direction of the electrostatic force which acts on the charge at the origin?
physics.jpg


Homework Equations



Coulombs Law
physics-1.png


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm coming up with 0.36N to the right but I'm not sure if it's right.
I have something different. If you showed your working, perhaps we could point out where you've gone wrong.
 
hootenanny said:
i have something different. If you showed your working, perhaps we could point out where you've gone wrong.

(9e9)(2.0e-6)(2.0e-6)/(.1)2 = 0.36 and since its positive it goes to the right
 
well if they have the same charge they shouldn't be attracted to one another...
 

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