Solving Coulomb's Law Homework Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a Coulomb's Law problem involving three point charges: +2.0 nC, -2.0 nC, and +1.0 nC. The key equation used is Coulomb's Law, expressed as F = K(q1)(q2)/r², where K is the electrostatic constant (9.0 x 10⁹ N m²/C²). The participants clarify the need to calculate both the magnitude and direction of the force on the 1.0 nC charge, taking into account the distances between the charges, specifically noting that r = 1.0 cm (0.01 m).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law and its formula
  • Basic knowledge of vector addition in physics
  • Familiarity with electrostatic forces and charge interactions
  • Ability to convert units, specifically from centimeters to meters
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  • Learn about the implications of charge polarity on force direction
  • Explore examples of Coulomb's Law problems for practice
  • Review the concept of electrostatic force and its applications in real-world scenarios
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Students studying physics, particularly those tackling electrostatics and Coulomb's Law problems, as well as educators seeking to provide clearer examples of vector addition in electrostatic contexts.

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Homework Statement


Having trouble with my vector addition when it comes to this homework question. Not really sure how to go about solving this problem since I'm new to coulomb's law problems and my prof didnt really give us many examples in class. Here is the picture of the charges. The question asks:
A)What is the force F⃗ on the 1.0 nC charge and Determine the magnitude of the force F.
B)Determine the direction of the force F⃗ .
Assume that +x axis is directed from the 2.0 nC charge to the -2.0 nC charge





Homework Equations


eqn for coulomb's F=K(q1)(q2)/r^2 K=9.0x10^9

I named q1=-2.0nC=-2.0X10^-9 C
q2=2.0nC=2.0X10^-9 C
q3=1.0nC=1.0X10^-9 C




The Attempt at a Solution


I tried doing the action reaction force of F(1on2) but not sure what to do with the angles and also not sure if my answers make sense since i was getting very large answers.
 

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Should also mention r=1.0cm=0.01m
 

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