Finding the tension in the thread

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a charged ball suspended in an electric field. The question asks for the tension in the thread holding the ball, given the magnitude and direction of the electric field and the charge on the ball. The conversation also mentions the use of the formula E=F/q or E=mg/q to solve the problem, and notes that there may be other forces at play such as gravity. The final answer for the tension in the thread is (a) 8.3 mN for a positive charge and (b) 3.5 mN for a negative charge, and the conversation encourages the poster to show their own working before asking for help.
  • #1
JKhim
8
0

Homework Statement


A tiny, 0.60g ball carries a charge of magnitude 8.0 mircoC. It is suspended by a vertical thread in a downard 300 N/C electric field. What is the tension in the thread if the charge on the ball is (a) positive, (b) negative?

Homework Equations


E=F/q or E=mg/q

When i use that formula something is missing because I've tried to match the final answer from the other thread with the same exact problem he wants to solve too
 
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  • #2
Try finding the electric force on the ball caused by the field.
 
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Likes JKhim
  • #3
Still finding the final formula for this problem
 
  • #4
This are the answers
(a) 8.3 mN; (b) 3.5 mN.
 
  • #5
All the forces are vertical. In both cases you have an electric force and gravitational force, in one case they are opposite.
In what directions does a positive vs. negative charge move in the electric field? Does a positive charge go against or
along the field lines?
 
  • #6
JKhim said:
When i use that formula something is missing
it will save a lot of time and guesswork if you post your own working and answer in the first place.
 
  • #7
JKhim said:
This are the answers
(a) 8.3 mN; (b) 3.5 mN.
Are these your answers or the book’s answer? If yours, how did you arrive at them? If the book’s, note that forum rules requires you to show effort.
 
  • #8
Start by enumerating all the forces that are acting on the ball. There are three different forces... Which are these forces and which is their direction and magnitude? Once you answer this question use that ##\sum \vec{F_i}=0## that is that the sum of all forces must equal zero since the ball is at equilibrium.
 

FAQ: Finding the tension in the thread

What is tension in a thread?

Tension in a thread is the force or pull exerted on the thread, which keeps it tight and prevents it from sagging or breaking.

How do you measure tension in a thread?

Tension in a thread can be measured using a tension meter or by using a formula that takes into account the weight of the object being supported by the thread and the angle at which the thread is pulled.

What factors affect the tension in a thread?

The tension in a thread can be affected by various factors such as the weight of the object being supported, the angle at which the thread is pulled, the type and thickness of the thread, and any external forces acting on the thread.

How can I increase or decrease the tension in a thread?

The tension in a thread can be increased by increasing the weight of the object being supported, decreasing the angle at which the thread is pulled, or using a thicker thread. To decrease the tension, these factors can be reversed or the thread can be loosened slightly.

Why is it important to find the tension in a thread?

Finding the tension in a thread is important in various fields such as engineering, sewing, and construction. It helps ensure that the thread can support the weight of the object without breaking and also helps determine the appropriate thread and angle for a specific task.

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