Two Point Charges: Physics Problem Help

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a physics problem involving two point charges, qA and qB, and determining the electric field at a point P. Participants suggest using Coulomb's law and the formula E=k[q]/r² to analyze the forces acting on a test charge placed between the two point charges. A key point raised is the importance of correctly identifying the distances involved and the relationships between the charges. There is confusion regarding the mathematical approach, particularly in applying cross multiplication to solve for the unknown distance. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in the setup and calculations to arrive at the correct solution.
phunphysics2
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Greetings fellow physics adorers/ mathematicians,

I was wondering if someone could help me with my posted problem. All the necessary details from the template are included in the screenshot on the right.
 

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From the second attachment (the one on the right) it looks as though you need only cross multiply and solve for x to finish.
 
I don't know how to do so mathematically...
 
Your starting formula is wrong.

Draw a picture of the two charges along a line, then equate Coulomb attraction of a unit (positive) test charge to qB to repulsion of that test charge from qA.

Hint: the zero-field point might be between qA and qB, or it might not ...
 
Coulomb's law is not used. My professor said to only use the E=k[q]/rsquared formula...
 
I know that the order of the point charges goes as followed


qb -------------------qa--------------------P
 
phunphysics2 said:
I know that the order of the point charges goes as followed


qb -------------------qa--------------------P

Never mind, you called x the distance from p to qB and d the distance between qA and qB, so what you wrote is fine.
 
phunphysics2 said:
I don't know how to do so mathematically...

Really? :confused:

If ##\frac{a}{b} = \frac{c}{d}## then ##a \cdot d = b \cdot c##

You've never seen this?
 
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