Solving for q2: Find Charge of Particle 2

[rcmango]

Homework Statement

In a vacuum, two particles have charges of q1 and q2, where q1 = +3.5 µC. They are separated by a distance of 0.25 m, and particle 1 experiences an attractive force of 2.3 N. What is q2 (magnitude and sign)?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

not sure why this wouldn't work 2.3 N = (8.99 x 10^9 * Q2)/ .25^2

should that work? and would the sign be + or -?

thanks.

 

[olgranpappy]

Homework Statement

In a vacuum, two particles have charges of q1 and q2, where q1 = +3.5 µC. They are separated by a distance of 0.25 m, and particle 1 experiences an attractive force of 2.3 N. What is q2 (magnitude and sign)?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

not sure why this wouldn't work 2.3 N = (8.99 x 10^9 * Q2)/ .25^2

should that work? and would the sign be + or -?

thanks.

you want the force to be attractive, as stated in the problem. do like charges attract or repel?

 

[rcmango]

like charges repel. however, is my formula equation correct?

 

[Mindscrape]

You are missing a charge, remember

F = k \frac{qQ}{r^2}

 

[rcmango]

Okay, I see, so then I solve for Q2, correct?

which shows now 2.3 N = ((8.99 x 10^9) * (2.3) * (Q2) )/ .25^2

i get something like: -4.57 x 10^-12 C

 

[Mindscrape]

You should solve for what you want algebraically before you put in numbers. It is a lot easier that way. So you are right, you want the value of the other charge.

q_2 = \frac{r^2 F}{kq_1}

in terms of the numbers that would be... (you do it)

*note: you made a mistake for the value of the first charge. Also note that I just gave you the magnitude of the charge, you will have to figure out the sign.