SUMMARY
The mass of a plastic sphere suspended between two charged plates, separated by 0.050m and experiencing an electric force of 4.5x10^-15 N, is calculated using Newton's second law, F=ma. The correct approach involves using the acceleration due to gravity (g = 9.8 m/s²) since the sphere is at rest. The accurate mass calculation results in 4.59x10^-16 kg, confirming the initial misunderstanding of the problem's requirements.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
- Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.8 m/s²)
- Familiarity with electric forces and their effects on charged objects
- Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
- Review concepts of electric fields and forces on charged particles
- Study the relationship between mass, force, and acceleration in static equilibrium
- Explore the effects of varying electric field strengths on charged objects
- Learn about the principles of electrostatics and their applications in physics problems
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and electrostatics, as well as educators looking for examples of force and mass calculations in static scenarios.
