Static Electricity and particles

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the net force on charged particles arranged in a line, specifically focusing on the interactions between charges of +70, +48, and -80 µC, with a distance of 0.35 m between the center charge and each of the others.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of forces between the charges, emphasizing the importance of considering the direction and signs of the forces. There are suggestions to draw diagrams and analyze one charge at a time. Some participants express confusion regarding their calculations and seek clarification on the correct approach.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants attempting to clarify their calculations and the application of the force equations. Some guidance has been provided regarding the need to account for vector directions and the significance of signs in the calculations. However, there is no explicit consensus on the correct method or solution yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework guidelines, which may limit the type of assistance they can receive. There is a noted confusion regarding the calculations and the teacher's feedback, indicating potential misunderstandings in the application of the concepts involved.

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Homework Statement



Particles of charge +70, +48, and -80 \muC are placed in a line, in the previous order. The center one is .35 m from each of the others. Calculate the net force on each charge due to the other two.

Homework Equations



F=kq1q2/ d2


The Attempt at a Solution



I found the force between each but according to my teacher I am not doing this correctly could someone please tell me how i should go about doing this problem.
 
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Draw a diagram. Consider one charge at a time.

The ones on the end will be .35 and .7 distant from the other 2 respectively.

Be careful with the signs. Be careful with the units.

Be careful that you have taken care to note the direction of the force in each equation. (+,-) attracts and same sign repels.

Since forces are vectors then you must take that into account when you add them by superposition.
 
I thought that's what I was doing but after trying again i got the same wrong answer, I'm so confused about wht i should do with this problem!
 
Show your calculation then for the middle charge.
 
LowlyPion said:
Show your calculation then for the middle charge.

F1= (9x109)(70 x 10-6)(48x10-6)/ .352

this equals: 246.86

F3= (9x109)(-80 x 10-6)(48x10-6)/ .352


this equals: -282.1

Then i did
(246.862)+ (-282.12)= Q2

Q= 374C

but according to my teacher this is wrong... can you tell me what it is that I am doing wrong?
 

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