FIGURE 21-16
-As shown in Fig. 21-16, a point charge of +Q is placed at the center of a square, and a second point charge of -Q is placed at the upper-left corner. It is observed that an electrostatic force of 2.0 N acts on the positive charge at the center. What is the magnitude of the force that acts on the center charge if a third charge of -Q is placed at the lower-left corner?

Question

FIGURE 21-16 
-As shown in Fig. 21-16, a point charge of +Q is placed at the center of a square, and a second point charge of -Q is placed at the upper-left corner. It is observed that an electrostatic force of 2.0 N acts on the positive charge at the center. What is the magnitude of the force that acts on the center charge if a third charge of -Q is placed at the lower-left corner?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The force on the center charge due to the charge at the upper-left corner is 2.0 N to the left. The force on the center charge due to the charge at the lower-left corner is also 2.0 N to the left. The net force on the center charge is therefore 2.0 N + 2.0 N = 4.0 N to the left.

FIGURE 21-16 -As Shown in Fig. 21-16, a Point Charge of +Q