Point charges hanging on a string

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the angle theta for two point charges, each weighing 5 grams and charged to 100nC, suspended from 1m strings. The forces acting on the charges are described using Coulomb's law, with the equations Fx = Tsin(theta) - kq1q2/(2cos(theta))^2 = 0 and Fy = Tcos(theta) - mg = 0. Participants suggest solving the equations for tension (T) and theta, and recommend numerical methods for finding theta using graphing calculators.

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Homework Statement


What would be the angle theta as shown in the picture, if the 5 gram balls hangin off 1m strings have been charges to 100nC each


http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/5103/mooche.th.jpg


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not really sure how to solve such a question, can i get a hint?
i know the force each one exerts on the other is kq1q2 / r^2 and i can find that the distance between them is 2sin(theta) so the force is kq1q2/(2sin(theta))^2
So for , say, the left ball, we have
Fx = Tsintheta - kq1q2/(2costheta)^2 = 0
Fy = tcostheta - mg = 0

but what can i do with those eqations really :S
I definitely am stuck and have no idea how to proceed for such a q
 
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Can't see the diagram - too small. Clicking on it doesn't work.
Check the Fx equation - looks like you copied the 2sin(theta) incorrectly.
Two equations, two unknowns (theta and T) - you should be all set. Solve the Fy equation for T and sub into the Fx one to get . . . a nasty bit of trigonometry. Well you could always solve it numerically - just graph the trig function on your calculator and trace to the value you want it to be, then read off the angle.
 

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