What is the Charge on the Styrofoam Ball in an Electric Field Experiment?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the charge on the styrofoam ball suspended in an electric field, the relevant equation for the force experienced by a charge in an electric field is F = qE, where F is the force, q is the charge, and E is the electric field strength. The weight of the ball, which is equal to mg (mass times gravitational acceleration), must be balanced by the electric force acting on the ball. Thus, the equation can be set up as mg = qE. Rearranging this gives q = mg/E, allowing for the calculation of the charge once the mass and electric field strength are known. Understanding the relationship between force, charge, and electric field is crucial for solving this problem.
jonno426
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Homework Statement


In an experiment you find that a small styrofoam ball of mass m can be suspended in mid-air by an electric field of magnitude c pointing straight downward, towards the earth.

Its looking for the charge on the styrofoam ball, and I have no equation to help me solve for it.


Homework Equations


Lol that's what I'm lookin for.


The Attempt at a Solution


 
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What is the equation for the force experienced by a charge q in an electric field E?
 
k(q1)(q2) / l^2?
 
jonno426 said:
k(q1)(q2) / l^2?

You are given the magnitude of the E field. Note that much emphasis was placed on q and E. The force is proportional to product of two things...
 
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