Two positive point charges are fixed on the x-axis: q₁ = +8.0 μC at x = 0 and q₂ =…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Electric Charges and Fields · Electric Charges and Fields
Problem
Two positive point charges are fixed on the x-axis: q₁ = +8.0 μC at x = 0 and q₂ = +2.0 μC at x = +0.50 m. A small negative test charge q_t = −1.0 μC can move only along the x-axis.
(a) Write symbolic expressions for the magnitudes of the electric forces exerted on q_t by q₁ and q₂ when q_t is located at a general coordinate x (in meters) on the axis.
(b) By imposing the condition that the net electric force on q_t is zero, solve for the coordinate(s) x where equilibrium is possible. Clearly show your algebraic steps.
(c) State whether any equilibrium position lies between the two source charges or outside them, and explain why this result is consistent with the signs and relative magnitudes of q₁ and q₂.