- #1
Two Point Charges: Physics Problem Help
- Thread starter phunphysics2
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- Charges Point Point charges
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Homework Help Overview
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two point charges and their interactions, specifically focusing on the application of Coulomb's law and electric fields. Participants are attempting to understand the setup and mathematical relationships involved in the problem.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants are discussing the correct formulas to use, with some suggesting the need to equate forces while others express confusion about the mathematical steps involved. There are attempts to clarify the arrangement of the charges and the implications of their positions.
Discussion Status
The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing hints and suggestions for visualizing the problem. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the application of formulas, and while some guidance has been offered, no consensus has been reached on the correct approach.
Contextual Notes
There are indications of differing opinions on which formulas should be applied, as well as a mention of constraints imposed by the professor regarding the use of specific equations. Participants are also grappling with the implications of the arrangement of the charges.
- #2
gneill
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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.
- #3
phunphysics2
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I don't know how to do so mathematically...
- #4
rude man
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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 ...
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 ...
- #5
phunphysics2
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Coulomb's law is not used. My professor said to only use the E=k[q]/rsquared formula...
- #6
phunphysics2
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I know that the order of the point charges goes as followed
qb -------------------qa--------------------P
qb -------------------qa--------------------P
- #7
rude man
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phunphysics2 said:
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.
- #8
gneill
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phunphysics2 said:
Really?
If ##\frac{a}{b} = \frac{c}{d}## then ##a \cdot d = b \cdot c##
You've never seen this?
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