Three Point Charges, Find x-component

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the x and y components of the force acting on a charge +q due to two other charges arranged in an equilateral triangle. The participants initially struggle with the calculations, particularly with the application of Coulomb's law and the proper handling of signs in force direction. It is clarified that the y-component is zero, and the correct x-component calculation yields a value of 57.33 N after addressing earlier mistakes, including forgetting to square the distance. A diagram is suggested to visualize the forces acting on charge +q for better understanding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate calculations and direction determination in electrostatics problems.
rlc
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Homework Statement


In the figure, three point charges are arranged in a equilateral triangle of side a= 1.40×10-2 m. Sketch the field lines due to + Q and -Q, where Q = 2.50×10-5 C , and from them determine the direction of the force that acts on +q = 5.00×10-8 C because of the presence of the other two charges. What is the x-component of the force? What is the y-component of the force?
upload_2015-1-16_13-18-25.png


Homework Equations


F1=K*((Q*q)/a^2)
F(x)=2|F1|*Cos(60)

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that the y-component is 0 N.
Someone posted this problem in yahoo answers, and I tried to follow it. Something went wrong along the way, but here is the work from that solution:

*+Q=1, -Q=2, +q=3*

F1,3=(8.99E9)(5.00E-8)(2.50E-5)/(1.40E-2)=0.803 N
F2,3=(8.99E9)(5.00E-8)(-2.50E-5)/(1.40E-2)=-0.803 N

F1,3x=0.803(cos(30 degrees))=0.6951 (right)
F1,3y=0.803(cos(60))=0.4013 (down)

F2,3x=-0.803(cos(30))=-0.6951 (left)
F2,3Y=-0.803(cos(60))=-0.4013 (down

Here, I have the problem where if you combine x and y values, the answer is 0 for both of them.
Where did I go wrong, or is all of this wrong?
 
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rlc said:
F2,3=(8.99E9)(5.00E-8)(-2.50E-5)/(1.40E-2)=-0.803 N
Get rid of that negative sign. Use Coulomb's law to find the magnitude of the force, then use the signs to find the direction. Draw yourself a diagram of the forces on q.
 
Sorry for not replying in a while!
In the work I did, I completely forgot to square a, making all my numbers wrong.

((9E9)(q)(+Q))/(a^2)
((9E9)(5.00E-8)(2.50E-5))/(1.40E-2)^2=57.33 N (this is the x-component)

Thank you!
 
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