Charges +q and -3q, when placed a distance a apart, experience an electrostatic force F. Charges -2q and +q, when placed a distance 2a apart, experience an electrostatic force that is

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electrostatic force is given by Coulomb's law: F = k|q1*q2|/r^2. For the first pair, F = k|q*(-3q)|/a^2 = 3kq^2/a^2. For the second pair, F' = k|-2q*q|/(2a)^2 = 2kq^2/(4a^2) = kq^2/(2a^2). Since kq^2/(2a^2) < 3kq^2/a^2, the force is smaller.

Charges +Q and -3q, When Placed a Distance a Apart