Where Should a Proton be Placed to Create an Electric Field at the Origin?

AI Thread Summary
To create an electric field of <0, 3x10^4, 0> N/C at the origin, a proton must be placed at a specific distance calculated using the equation 1/(4πε₀) * q/r² = 3x10^4 N/C. The attempted solution calculated a distance of r = 2.19x10^-7 meters, but this was deemed incorrect. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the direction of the electric field and the behavior of charges, noting that a proton would repel a positive charge placed at the origin. It concludes that the placement of the proton may need to be reconsidered in relation to the direction of the electric field. Understanding the relationship between charge signs and electric field direction is crucial for solving this problem.
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Homework Statement


You want to create an electric field = < 0, 3x10^4,0 > N/C at location < 0, 0, 0>.
Where would you place a proton to produce this field at the origin?

Homework Equations


1/4?? * q/r^2 = 3x10^4 N/C

(if you can't see the 1/4th part of the equation it's 1/(4(pi)(epsilon-not)) == 9.0x10^9 or just k)

The Attempt at a Solution


I moved everything over so that I can solve for r^2 and got this as my equation:
r = sqrt((9.0x10^9)(1.6x10^-19)/(3x10^4))

I ended up getting 2.19x10^-7 however its' saying it's not correct. I have it set up as a vector:
<0, 2.19x10^-7, 0>

Does it need to be negative for a proton in relation to the electric field?
 
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if you place a proton at 2.19E-7 above the x-axis, which way will a +1C charge accelerate when it is placed at the origin?
 
jehan60188 said:
if you place a proton at 2.19E-7 above the x-axis, which way will a +1C charge accelerate when it is placed at the origin?

I have nooo idea. I'm kind of hazy as to the magnitude and direction of charged particles, so I'm not sure if its pointing up or down
 
like charges (attract or repel) each other
 
Oh wait, if it's at the origin, a proton would move away, so the sign would be negative, wouldn't it?
 
right
 
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