Three point charges, q₁, q₂, and q₃, are arranged so the potential energy for the pair q₁ and q₂ is 0.12 J and for the pair q₂ and q₃ is 0.23 J. If the total potential energy of the arrangement is 0.60 J, what is the potential energy of the pair q₁ and q₃?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The total potential energy is the sum of the potential energies of all pairs: 0.12 J (q1 and q2) + 0.23 J (q2 and q3) + potential energy of q1 and q3 = 0.60 J. Solving for the potential energy of q1 and q3 gives 0.60 J - 0.12 J - 0.23 J = 0.25 J.

Three Point Charges, Q1, Q2, and Q3, Are Arranged So

Three Point Charges, Q₁, Q₂, and Q₃, Are Arranged So