Solving Point Charge Problems: Tips and Help for Electrical Fields

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a first-year mechanical engineering student struggling with electrical fields, specifically point charge problems. The student seeks assistance with calculating the total force on a point charge and the electric field strength between two point charges. Forum members emphasize the importance of using a homework template and providing personal attempts at solving the problems to facilitate better guidance. The student acknowledges the notation of microcoulombs (μC) and is looking for clarity on the calculations involved. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for structured problem-solving approaches in physics.
jn.4846
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Hey guys, new to this forum. Currently studying a mechanical engineering degree (first year), but I'm having real problems with some of the electrical side of it, mainly electric fields.

Any tips or help on how to answer these two questions:

1. Two point charges of +3.1 muC are separated by a distance of 2.4cm. What would be the total force on a +0.25 uC point charge placed between them, 1cm away from one of them? (answer given 34.2 N away from nearest charge)

2.Two point charges of +3.1 muC are separated by a distance of 2.4cm. What would be the electric field strength between them, 1cm away from one of them? (answer given 137 N/C)

I realize that the muC seems a little strange, I have taken this to mean (*10-6), but I wrote it as muC as this is how it is written in my textbook.

Thanks for any help given!
 
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Hi jn, welcome to PF

Please note that we require that posts in the homework forums include the homework template provided when you make a new post and has it filled out. In particular, we ask that students provide us with details on their own attempt to solve the problems. We must therefore ask that you provide us with your own thoughts on the problems first. This will give us a better opportunity to provide you with the appropriate help.

See the links in my signature for further details.
 
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