Solving Point Charge Problems: Tips and Help for Electrical Fields

In summary, the conversation is about a student seeking help with understanding electric fields in their mechanical engineering degree. They have two questions involving point charges and are unsure about the units used in the problem. The student is reminded to include the homework template and their own attempt at solving the problems for better assistance.
  • #1
jn.4846
1
0
Hey guys, new to this forum. Currently studying a mechanical engineering degree (first year), but I'm having real problems with some of the electrical side of it, mainly electric fields.

Any tips or help on how to answer these two questions:

1. Two point charges of +3.1 muC are separated by a distance of 2.4cm. What would be the total force on a +0.25 uC point charge placed between them, 1cm away from one of them? (answer given 34.2 N away from nearest charge)

2.Two point charges of +3.1 muC are separated by a distance of 2.4cm. What would be the electric field strength between them, 1cm away from one of them? (answer given 137 N/C)

I realize that the muC seems a little strange, I have taken this to mean (*10-6), but I wrote it as muC as this is how it is written in my textbook.

Thanks for any help given!
 
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  • #2
Hi jn, welcome to PF

Please note that we require that posts in the homework forums include the homework template provided when you make a new post and has it filled out. In particular, we ask that students provide us with details on their own attempt to solve the problems. We must therefore ask that you provide us with your own thoughts on the problems first. This will give us a better opportunity to provide you with the appropriate help.

See the links in my signature for further details.
 

Related to Solving Point Charge Problems: Tips and Help for Electrical Fields

1. What are point charges?

Point charges are a fundamental concept in physics that refers to a charged particle that has a size so small that it can be considered as a point in space. These particles can have either a positive or negative electric charge.

2. How do point charges interact with each other?

The interaction between two point charges is described by Coulomb's Law, which states that the force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

3. How does the distance between point charges affect their interaction?

The force between two point charges decreases as the distance between them increases. This relationship is described by the inverse square law, which means that as the distance doubles, the force decreases by a factor of four.

4. What is the difference between positive and negative point charges?

A positive point charge has more protons than electrons, giving it a net positive charge, while a negative point charge has more electrons than protons, giving it a net negative charge. Positive and negative charges will attract each other, while like charges will repel.

5. How are point charges used in practical applications?

Point charges are used in a variety of practical applications, including electricity and magnetism, electrostatics, and electronic devices. They are also used in research and experiments to study the behavior of charged particles and their interactions with other particles and fields.

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