Estimating the Ratio of theta1 & theta2: Two Spheres with Unequal Charges

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on estimating the ratio of angles theta1 and theta2 for two charged spheres, S1 and S2, which are influenced by their charges and masses. Despite S2 having double the charge of S1, the angles remain equal due to the equal lengths of the strings and the horizontal alignment of their attachment points. Participants question the implications of differing charges on the forces between the spheres, referencing Coulomb's law and Newton's third law. It is clarified that while the forces are unequal, the equilibrium conditions lead to the same angle of inclination for both spheres. Ultimately, the estimated ratio of theta1 to theta2 is confirmed to be 1.
iknownth
Messages
16
Reaction score
0
Two spheres S1 and S2 hang from light insulating strings of the same length from points P1 and P2 which are on the same level. S1 is of mass M and has charge Q. S2 is of mass M and has charge 2Q. Repulsion between S1 and S2 causes their strings to be inclined at angles of theta1 and theta2 to the vertical respectively. What is the estimated ratio of theta1/theta2?
The ans is 1.
Is it because P1 and P2 are on the same level and the two strings are of the same length?
But the charges of the two spheres are different. Shouldn't one of them be repelled further?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What is the magnitude of the force from S1 to S2, and what is the magnitude of the force from S2 to S1?
 
The force from S2 to S1 should be double that of the force from S1 to S2 because S2 has charge 2Q??
 
Have another look at Coulomb's law and compare the 2 electric forces.
Also think about Newton's 3rd law.
 
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'

Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'

TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
View full post »
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'

Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'

The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
View full post »

Similar threads

Angle between 2 charged spheres hanging from string
Replies
19
Views
7K
Metal sphere drawn and then repelled by charged rod
Replies
2
Views
8K
What is the Ratio of Angles and Distance Between Two Charged Spheres?
Replies
4
Views
13K
Electrostatics: suspended spheres
Replies
2
Views
5K
q1=q2 & L1=L2 for Equal Level Charged Pendulum
Replies
5
Views
3K
Electric potential of tiny spheres question
Replies
1
Views
3K
Calculating Angle and Distance of Separation for Repelling Charged Spheres
Replies
2
Views
2K
Charge Leakage in Suspended Spheres with Varying Approach Velocity
Replies
2
Views
2K
Electric field on two charged spheres
Replies
5
Views
11K
Doublet flow in Fluid Dynamics between two spheres or cylinders
Replies
0
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top