How Do Point Charges Affect Force on a Charge Along the X-axis?

In summary, the conversation discusses two point charges located on the x-axis, q_1 = -15.0nC at x_1 = -1.745m and q_2 = 38.5nC at the origin. The total force along the x-axis, including sign, exerted by these charges on a third charge q_3 = 47.0nC placed between them at x_3 = -1.160m is being calculated using the equations F_1 = q_1*q_3/4pi*e_0*r_1^2 and F_2 = q_2*q_3/4pi*e_0*r_2^2. The values of the charges and
  • #1
wingit132
1
0
Two point charges are located on the x axis: one charge q_1 = -15.0nC located at x_1 = -1.745m , and a second charge q_2 = 38.5nC at the origin.What is the total force along the x axis, including sign, exerted by these two charges on a third charge q_3 = 47.0nC placed between q_1 and q_2 at x_3 = -1.160m ? Use 8.85*10^-12 C^2/N*m^2 for the permittivity of free space.

I have set up the equations F_1 =q_1*q_3/4pi*e_0*r_1^2 and F_2 =q_2*q_3/4pi*e_0*r_2^2
q_1=-1.5*10^-8C
q_2=3.85*10^8C
q_3=4.7*10^8C
r_1=.585m
r_2=1.160m

It tells my I have the wrong answer but I just need a push in the right direction.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Hi wingit, welcome to PF.
Please show your calculations. Unless we see your calculations, we are not in a position to
say where you went wrong.
 

FAQ: How Do Point Charges Affect Force on a Charge Along the X-axis?

What is the concept of "3 point charges on an x-axis"?

The concept of "3 point charges on an x-axis" refers to a scenario in which three charged particles are placed on an x-axis, with each particle having a different charge. This setup allows for the study of the behavior of electrical forces between charged particles.

How do the charges interact with each other in this scenario?

In this scenario, the charges interact with each other through electrical forces. Like charges (positive and positive, or negative and negative) repel each other, while opposite charges (positive and negative) attract each other.

What is the formula for calculating the net force on a charge in this scenario?

The formula for calculating the net force on a charge in this scenario is F = k * (q1 * q2) / r^2, where k is the Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the charges of the two particles, and r is the distance between them. This formula takes into account the magnitude and direction of the forces between the charges.

How does the distance between the charges affect the net force on a charge?

The distance between the charges has a significant impact on the net force on a charge. As the distance between the charges decreases, the net force increases and vice versa. This is because the force between charges follows an inverse square relationship with distance, meaning that the force decreases exponentially as the distance increases.

Can the charges be arranged in a way that results in a net force of zero?

Yes, it is possible to arrange the charges in a way that results in a net force of zero. This can be achieved by having two charges with the same magnitude but opposite sign, placed equidistant from a third charge with a different magnitude. The forces between the charges would cancel each other out, resulting in a net force of zero.

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