Struggling with a concept in regards to electric fields

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field at a specific point influenced by two point charges: -2 N/C and +4 N/C. The user is attempting to apply the formula for electric fields, specifically using the equations kq1/r1 and kq2/r2, to determine the resultant electric field. The principle of superposition in electrostatics is confirmed as the correct approach, allowing for the vector addition of the electric fields from both charges to find the total electric field at the point of interest.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and point charges
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's Law and the formula kq/r
  • Knowledge of vector addition in physics
  • Basic principles of electrostatics, including superposition
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of electric field lines and their representation
  • Learn how to apply the principle of superposition in electrostatics
  • Explore vector addition techniques for multiple forces or fields
  • Investigate the effects of distance on electric field strength
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism, as well as educators and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of electric fields and point charge interactions.

Shinwasha
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So I'm trying to figure out the electric field that is acting on a point. This point is .3 m right of a point charge with -2N/C and .8m from a point charge with +4N/C. I've drawn it out, and realize both will have an impact on this object. what the issue I'm having is figuring out a formula to use. I would expect that taking the electric field that the +4N/C charge creates using kq1/r1 and then adding the field the second creates kq2/r2 would then give me the complete field. Would this be correct?
 
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There is a principle of superposition in electrostatics, which means fields of different charges can be added together (vectorially) to get the resultant field.
 
Shinwasha said:
So I'm trying to figure out the electric field that is acting on a point. This point is .3 m right of a point charge with -2N/C and .8m from a point charge with +4N/C. I've drawn it out, and realize both will have an impact on this object. what the issue I'm having is figuring out a formula to use. I would expect that taking the electric field that the +4N/C charge creates using kq1/r1 and then adding the field the second creates kq2/r2 would then give me the complete field. Would this be correct?

Please post a sketch of the arrangement, and show how you added the Electric field vectors at the point of interest...
 

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