When a positive charge q is placed in the field created by two other charges Q₁ and Q₂, each a distance r away from q, the acceleration of q is A) in the direction of the charge Q₁ or Q₂ of smaller magnitude. B) in the direction of the charge Q₁ or Q₂ of greater magnitude. C) in the direction of the negative charge if Q₁ and Q₂ are of opposite sign. D) in the direction of the positive charge if Q₁ and Q₂ are of opposite sign. E) in a direction determined by the vector sum of the electric fields of Q₁ and Q₂.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The acceleration of q will be in the direction of the net electric field at its position, which is the vector sum of the electric fields created by the two charges Q₁ and Q₂. Therefore, the correct answer is E.

When a Positive Charge Q Is Placed in the Field