Analyzing the Force Acting on a 3q/4 Charge Between Two Charges

The electrostatic force between charged particles is a fundamental concept in physics. This article explores how to determine the nature and relative magnitude of the force acting on a charge of 3q/4 when it is placed between two charges, q and q/2. We will discuss the principles governing such interactions and clarify any ambiguities that might arise.

Understanding the Interaction

In electrostatics, the force between two charged particles is described by Coulomb's Law. Coulomb's Law states that the magnitude of the force is directly proportional to the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. Mathematically, it is expressed as:

F k * (q1 * q2) / r^2

where k is Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the magnitudes of the charges, and r is the distance between them.

The Nature of the Force

The nature of the force between charges 3q/4, q, and q/2 depends on the signs of the charges. If all charges are of the same sign (all positive or all negative), the force between them is repulsive. Conversely, if the charges are of opposite signs, the force is attractive.

Determining the Magnitude of the Force

To determine the relative magnitude of the force acting on the charge 3q/4, you need to know the distances between the charges. This is crucial because the magnitude of the force decreases as the distance between the charges increases.

Key Points:

If 3q/4 is placed between charges q and q/2, the force is repulsive since they are of the same sign. To determine which force is stronger (between 3q/4 and q or 3q/4 and q/2), you need to know whether 3q/4 is located midway between q and q/2 or closer to one of them. If 3q/4 is midway between q and q/2, the force from each charge will be equal and repulsive. However, if 3q/4 is closer to one charge, the force will be stronger from that charge.

Clarifying Ambiguities

Your question is somewhat vague. Rajesh R correctly pointed out that the relative distance between the charges should be specified. Without this information, the exact nature and magnitude of the force acting on the 3q/4 charge cannot be determined precisely.

Additionally, the term "midway" is important when determining the relative magnitudes of the forces. If the charge 3q/4 is not placed midway between q and q/2, the force could be significantly different, with the charge experiencing a stronger force from the more dominant charge.

Conclusion

In summary, the nature of the force acting on a charge of 3q/4 between two charges, q and q/2, is repulsive due to their like signs. To determine the relative magnitude of the forces, you need to know the exact positions and distances between the charges. Without this information, it is impossible to quantify which force is stronger. Always specify the relative distances when dealing with electrostatic forces for accurate analysis.

Keywords: electrostatic force, repulsive force, charge interaction