What is the the electric field at a point midway between

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electric field at a point midway between two point charges, specifically a -7.39 µC charge and a +5.17 µC charge that are 3.32 cm apart. Participants are exploring the implications of charge placement and the correct application of the electric field equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply the electric field equations to find the total electric field at the midpoint between the charges. Questions arise regarding the correct distance to use in calculations and potential sign errors in the electric field contributions from the charges.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants sharing their calculations and questioning each other's approaches. Some have pointed out possible errors in distance measurement and sign conventions, while others are verifying their methods and results. There is a collaborative effort to clarify misunderstandings and refine calculations.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the distance used in calculations, particularly the need to halve the total distance between the charges when determining the electric field at the midpoint. Participants are also addressing the importance of correctly applying the signs associated with the charges.

shimizua
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Homework Statement


What is the the electric field at a point midway between a -7.39 uC and a +5.17 uC charge 3.32 cm apart? Take the direction towards the positive charge to be positive.


Homework Equations


E1=kq1/r^2
E2=kq2//r^2
E1+E2=Etotal


The Attempt at a Solution


E1=8.9E9(5.17E-6)/.0332^2
E2=8.9E9(-7.39E-6)/.0332^2
I got 4.1E7 and 5.97E7 which i added up for 1.014E8 N/C
 
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Are you sure you didn't make a sign error for E2?
Also, the charges are 3.32 cm apart. You are situated midway through them. How could then r be 3.32 cm?
 
wow thanks, i didnt even think about how it was in the middle. thanks again so much
 
I'm working on this problem also, and getting something wrong. I'm using the same equation as you. Did you find that dividing r/2 gave you the correct answer?
 
um...ya. so i just divided the r by 2. but u still have to make sure you are squaring it? post up ur numbers and stuff and what you get if you are still having trouble and ill see if i can help you out
 
What is the the electric field at a point midway between a -7.79 uC and a +5.66 uC charge 3.74 cm apart? Take the direction towards the positive charge to be positive.

So I did:

(9E9)(-7.79E-6)/(.00187^2)

and

(9E9)(5.66E-6)/(.00187^2)

then added the two answers together, which isn't working.
 
sorry it took so long, i had a class. it would be .0187 not .00187. that is probably why. does that work now?
 

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