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 charge q will depend on the net electric field at its position, which is the vector sum of the electric fields created by Q1 and Q2. The direction of this net electric field will depend on the direction and magnitude of the electric fields created by Q1 and Q2, which will in turn depend on their magnitudes, signs, and distances from q. Therefore, the direction of acceleration cannot be determined solely by the magnitude or sign of Q1 or Q2, or whether they are opposite or not. It will depend on the vector sum of the electric fields.

When a Positive Charge Q Is Placed in the Field