Resultant Force on Q1 from Three Point Charges

Q_1Q_3}{a^2}\cos(60^\circ)In summary, the conversation discusses the resultant force on q1, which is calculated by finding the value of F1 and F2, resolving them into one resultant vector force, and using the formula {\vec{F}}_{TOTAL} = \vec{F}_1 + \vec{F}_2 = \frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_0}\frac{Q_1Q_3}{a^2}\cos(60^\circ). The individuals also clarify that the forces should be represented as vectors, since they are applied in different directions.
  • #1
stumped23
3
0
Three point charges with a distance a between them (as shown). What is the resultant force on q1?

Is this correct or am I doing this completely wrong?

edit: that should be Q1 multiplied by Q3 not adding

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/3668/untitledxr7.jpg
 
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  • #2
You're partially right. The F's on your answer should be vectors, since the forces applied on the charge by different charges are on different directions (radial ones)
 
  • #3
Thanks. I knew adding the two forces like that couldn't be right

so if i find the value of F1 and F2 (angle of 60 degrees between them), and resolve them into one resultant vector force.. that will be the correct answer?
 
  • #4
Yes.
[tex]{\vec{F}}_{TOTAL} = \vec{F}_1 + \vec{F}_2[/tex]
 

FAQ: Resultant Force on Q1 from Three Point Charges

1. What is meant by "resultant force" in the context of three point charges?

The resultant force on Q1 from three point charges refers to the combined effect of the electrical forces exerted by all three charges on Q1. It is the net force that Q1 experiences due to the presence of the other charges.

2. How is the resultant force on Q1 calculated from three point charges?

The resultant force is calculated using Coulomb's law, which states that the force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. The resultant force is the vector sum of the individual forces from each charge.

3. What factors affect the magnitude and direction of the resultant force on Q1?

The magnitude and direction of the resultant force depend on the magnitude and sign of the charges, as well as the distance between them. The angle at which the charges are positioned relative to each other also affects the direction of the resultant force.

4. Can the resultant force on Q1 be zero in the presence of three point charges?

Yes, it is possible for the resultant force on Q1 to be zero if the three charges are arranged in such a way that the vector sum of the individual forces cancels out. This can occur when the charges are positioned at equal distances from Q1 and have opposite signs.

5. How does the distance between the three point charges affect the resultant force on Q1?

The distance between the charges has an inverse relationship with the magnitude of the resultant force on Q1. As the distance increases, the force decreases. However, the direction of the resultant force may change depending on the arrangement of the charges.

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