Three identical positive point charges

PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Fields and their consequences · Fields and their consequences

Problem

Three identical positive point charges, each of magnitude

+2.0\,\mu\text{C}

, are fixed at three corners of a square whose side length is

0.20\,\text{m}

. The charge at the fourth corner has been removed. A positive test charge

+1.0\,\mu\text{C}

is placed at the center of the square. Determine the magnitude and direction of the net electric force on the test charge. (a)

0.90\,\text{N}

directed toward the nearest occupied corner along the diagonal (b)

1.8\,\text{N}

directed toward the nearest occupied corner (c)

0.90\,\text{N}

directed toward the empty corner along the diagonal (d)

0.64\,\text{N}

directed toward the center of the nearest side