The electrostatic potential energy of two spheres

[Fatima Hasan]

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Is my answer correct ?

 

[kuruman]

Yes.

 

[TSny]

If you substitute $Q_1 = 4Q$ and $Q_2 = 4Q$ into $\frac{k Q_1 Q_2}{L}$, do you get an overall factor of 4 in the answer?

 

[Fatima Hasan]

If you substitute $Q_1 = 4Q$ and $Q_2 = 4Q$ into $\frac{k Q_1 Q_2}{L}$, do you get an overall factor of 4 in the answer?

$\frac{16 k Q}{L}$ .

 

[TSny]

$\frac{16 k Q}{L}$ .

Yes, if you put a square on the Q.

 

[TSny]

If you like puzzles, compare the initial potential energy of the two spheres with the final potential energy of the two spheres. Did the energy increase, decrease, or stay the same?