What is the net electric force on the charge at the origin?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the net electric force and electric field at the origin due to three charges arranged in a triangular configuration. Participants are addressing the relationships between electric force and electric field, as well as the implications of vector addition in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the application of the electric field equation and its relevance to the problem. There is a focus on calculating the electric field from each charge and using vector addition to determine the net electric field. Questions arise regarding the distinction between electric force and electric field, as well as the implications of having a test charge at the origin.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on how to approach the calculations for the electric field. There is some confusion regarding the relationship between the electric force and electric field, leading to clarifications about their differences. Participants are encouraged to show their calculations to further the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of electric forces and fields, with some expressing uncertainty about the calculations required for different parts of the problem. There is an emphasis on understanding the vector nature of electric fields and forces.

sushi362
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Homework Statement


Consider three charges in a triangle as shown.

1. What is the net electric force on the charge at the origin?

2. What is the direction of this force(between -180 and 180)?

3. What is the magnitude of the net electric field at the position of the charge at the origin?

4. What is the direction of the net electric field?



Homework Equations



E = Kc * Q/r^2



The Attempt at a Solution



I solved part 1, to be 2.5*10^-6
part 2 is -102.38

i have no clue what to do for part 3.
once i figure that out, i should be able to do part 4.
 

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You listed the equation for the electric field, why not use it?
 


Net electric field is found form the electric field created by the charges.

Electric field is also a vector quantity which can be summed.

E = kq/r2

You should be able to find the electric field for each charge and through vector addition, find the net field.

Also consider: The charge at the origin does have a field, but if a test charge is at the origin too, (directly in the middle of the charge at the origin), will the test charge be affected by the field of the charge at the origin?
 


tms said:
You listed the equation for the electric field, why not use it?

so #3 is the same as #1?

i used the equation to calculate the e field for the 2 points: origin to the right of the origin, and origin to south of origin. then i took the square root of the squares of those values, and got part 1 again?
 


sushi362 said:
so #3 is the same as #1?
No. #1 wants the force while #3 wants the field. They aren't the same. The equation you wrote down under "Relevant equations" is for the field.

Show us your calculations.
 

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