Point charges in an equilateral triangle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the arrangement of point charges in an equilateral triangle and the possibility of placing a fourth charge at the midpoint of one of the sides such that the net force on it would be zero. The scope includes conceptual reasoning and exploratory analysis of electrostatic forces.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a fourth charge can be placed at the midpoint such that the force on it is zero, suggesting that a charge would be needed to cancel the force from the opposite vertex charge.
  • Another participant humorously acknowledges their intent to provide answers but reiterates the initial question about the possibility of force cancellation.
  • A hint is provided regarding the cancellation of forces at the midpoint, prompting further consideration of the arrangement of charges.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; there are differing views on whether the fourth charge can achieve a net force of zero, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions about the nature of the forces involved and the specific conditions under which the fourth charge would be placed, which are not fully explored or defined.

mbenade
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In an equilateral triangle a positive point charge +q is located at each of the vertices. If a 4th charge is added at the midpoint between one of the sides could this charge be such that the force on it would be zero?
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi mbenade! Welcome to PF! :wink:
mbenade said:
In an equilateral triangle a positive point charge +q is located at each of the vertices. If a 4th charge is added at the midpoint between one of the sides could this charge be such that the force on it would be zero?

What do you think? :smile:
 
I think everytime tiny tim decides to help someone through with a problem I am going to come in behind him and tell the asker all the answers in some feeble and embarrassing attempt to steal his thunder. But he's right...what do you think
 
my first answer would be no because a forth charge would be needed to cancel out the force on the new point charge by the opposite pt charge, but I am not sure.
 
Hi mbenade! :smile:
mbenade said:
my first answer would be no because a forth charge would be needed to cancel out the force on the new point charge by the opposite pt charge, but I am not sure.

hmmm … yes, but not very scientific-sounding …

Hint: do any of the charges cancel out (at that midpoint)? :wink:​
 

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