Where the electric field is zero

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the location where the electric field is zero between two fixed charges, -20.6 microC and +4.2 microC, separated by 3.3 m. The calculated position for zero electric field is approximately 2.72 m from the positive charge. For part B, the force on a third charge of +24.1 microC placed at this location is calculated using the formula F = k(q1*q2)/r^2, yielding a force of about 0.123 N. There is confusion regarding the forces acting on the third charge, with a suggestion that the forces from the two other charges would cancel each other out, leading to a potential misunderstanding of the net force. The discussion emphasizes the need for clarity on how to account for the interactions between multiple charges.
JJones_86
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Homework Statement


Two charges, -20.6 microC and +4.2 microC, are fixed in place and separated by 3.3 m.

(a) At what spot along a line through the charges is the net electric field zero? Locate this spot relative to the position of the positive charge.

(b) What would be the magnitude of the force on a third charge +24.1 microC placed at this spot?


Homework Equations



F = k (q1*q2)/r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



None

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I've got part A to be 2.71679m from the positive charge, I just don't know how to do part B. The equation I posted seems to me irrelevant because there are now 3 charges. Any help is appreciated.
 
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(b) What would be the magnitude of the force on a third charge +24.1 microC placed at this spot?
Find the force between +24.1 microC and+ 4.2 micro C. Force due to other charge will be equal and opposite to this force.
 
rl.bhat said:
(b) What would be the magnitude of the force on a third charge +24.1 microC placed at this spot?
Find the force between +24.1 microC and+ 4.2 micro C. Force due to other charge will be equal and opposite to this force.

F = k*q1*q2/r^2
F = 8.99E9(4.2E-6)(24.1E-6)/2.71679^2
F = 0.123286 N?
 
rl.bhat said:
(b) What would be the magnitude of the force on a third charge +24.1 microC placed at this spot?
Find the force between +24.1 microC and+ 4.2 micro C. Force due to other charge will be equal and opposite to this force.

I'm not exactly sure what you mean by equal and opposite, would it make it 0 N then?
 
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