Point charges in an equilateral triangle

AI Thread Summary
In an equilateral triangle with positive point charges +q at each vertex, the discussion revolves around the possibility of placing a fourth charge at the midpoint of one side such that the net force on it is zero. It is suggested that a fourth charge would be necessary to balance the forces exerted by the existing charges. The participants hint at the need for a scientific approach to determine if any forces cancel out at the midpoint. The conversation emphasizes the complexity of achieving equilibrium with the given configuration. Ultimately, the feasibility of this scenario remains uncertain without further analysis.
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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