FIGURE 21-2
-Four point charges of equal magnitudes but with varying signs are arranged on three of the corners and at the center of the square of side d as shown in Fig. 21-2. Which of the arrows shown represents the net force acting on the center charge?

Question

FIGURE 21-2 
-Four point charges of equal magnitudes but with varying signs are arranged on three of the corners and at the center of the square of side d as shown in Fig. 21-2. Which of the arrows shown represents the net force acting on the center charge?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The net force on the center charge is the vector sum of the forces due to the other three charges. The forces due to the charges at the corners are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, so they cancel out. The force due to the charge at the center is repulsive and points away from the center. Therefore, the net force on the center charge is repulsive and points away from the center, which is represented by arrow A.

FIGURE 21-2 -Four Point Charges of Equal Magnitudes but with Varying Signs