Two point charges 2C and 6C repel each other with a force of 12N. If a...
Calculation of force between two point charges
The force between two point charges can be calculated using Coulomb's law, which states that the force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
Mathematically, the formula for Coulomb's law is:
F = K * q1 * q2 / r^2
Where F is the force, K is the Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the charges, and r is the distance between them.
Calculation of Coulomb's constant
The Coulomb's constant is a physical constant that relates the force between two charged particles to their charges and the distance between them.
The value of Coulomb's constant is:
K = 1 / (4 * π * ε0)
Where ε0 is the permittivity of free space and has a value of 8.85 x 10^-12 F/m.
Substituting the values of K, q1, q2, and F in Coulomb's law, we get:
12 = (1 / (4 * π * 8.85 x 10^-12)) * 2 * 6 / r^2
r = 1.5 cm
Calculation of force after charge is given to the charges
After a charge of -4C is given to each of the charges, the force between them can be calculated using Coulomb's law.
The new charges on the particles are:
2C - 4C = -2C
6C - 4C = 2C
Substituting the values of the new charges, K, and r in Coulomb's law, we get:
F = (1 / (4 * π * 8.85 x 10^-12)) * -2C * 2C / (1.5 x 10^-2)^2
F = -24N
Explanation
The negative charge reduces the magnitude of the force between the particles because it creates an attractive force that opposes the repulsive force between the particles.
Therefore, the force between the particles is reduced from 12N to -24N.