Q vs q in Coulomb's Law: Understanding Notation for Charges

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    Coulomb's law Law
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SUMMARY

Coulomb's Law utilizes different notations for charges, specifically Q and q, to represent distinct charge magnitudes. Q typically denotes a larger charge, while q represents a smaller charge. Both Q and q can be either positive or negative, indicating the nature of the charges involved. Understanding this notation is crucial for correctly applying Coulomb's Law in electrostatics.

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  • Basic understanding of electrostatics
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's Law
  • Knowledge of positive and negative charge concepts
  • Ability to interpret scientific notation
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Students studying physics, educators teaching electrostatics, and anyone seeking clarity on charge notation in Coulomb's Law.

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Homework Statement



This is a question about notation. When working with Coulomb's Law, is Q>0 and q<0? What is the difference between Q and q?

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The Attempt at a Solution


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My understanding is that they are just "different" charges. They may both be negative or both positive or one is positive and one is negative.
 
With subscripts to denote which charge is which, I do not understand why Q and q are used. I will check with my professor tomorrow. Thanks for your response.
 

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