What is the new separation between the charges?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two positive point charges initially separated by 0.86 m, which are moved to double their electric potential energy. The objective is to determine the new separation between the charges.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between electric potential energy and distance, with one participant attempting to manipulate the equation for potential energy to find the new separation. Questions arise regarding the cancellation of terms and the interpretation of the resulting equation.

Discussion Status

There appears to be a productive exchange, with participants confirming the steps taken and discussing the algebraic manipulation of the equation. While one participant suggests a potential solution, there is no explicit consensus on the final answer.

Contextual Notes

No specific constraints or missing information are noted, but the discussion revolves around the algebraic steps necessary to solve the problem.

kdrobey
Messages
27
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement




Two positive point charges are held in place, 0.86 m apart. They are then moved so that their electric potential energy doubles. What is the new separation between the charges?

Homework Equations



kq/r

The Attempt at a Solution


had PEb=KQaQb/d=2EPEa, then did KQaQb/d=2(KQaQb/.86. but cannot figure out how to solve it further
 
Physics news on Phys.org
kdrobey said:
... then did KQaQb/d=2(KQaQb/.86.
This is good. Simply and solve for d. Start by canceling everything that can be canceled from both sides of the equation.
 
both sides of the equation had KQaQb, i canceled the part out on both sides, leaving, 1/d=2(1/.86). then 1=2.32d. d=.43?
 
Looks good to me.
 
awesome, thanks
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
20
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
3K